Tinnitus is a condition experienced by an estimated 50 Million Americans that most commonly manifests as a constant ringing in your ears. Most often associated with hearing loss, it can get extremely distressful, and it often worsens with age. You may have noticed that the older you get, the more sensitive you become to loud noises despite experiencing hearing loss and that may mean your tinnitus is worsening.
Although not all types of tinnitus can be cured, there are ways to manage it – such as wearing tinnitus masking hearing aids and several steps you can take to prevent it from worsening:
1. Clean Your Ears
Buildup of earwax in the ear canal can cause several problems, including tinnitus. This often happens from earbuds and cotton swabs and the blockage can result in tinnitus. Speak to your doctor about properly cleaning your ears and whether or not wax buildup may be the cause of your tinnitus.
2. Discontinue Ototoxic Medications
Heavy intake of medications such as antidepressants, aspirin, cancer medicine, and antibiotics can worsen and increase your chances of experiencing tinnitus. Avoid taking a heavy dosage of these medications to reduce the risks of experiencing it, but only if your doctor determines it is safe for you to do so.
3. Less Stress
Stress is one of the main culprits of most illnesses today. In this case, stress can cause your blood pressure to increase, a common cause of tinnitus. Reduce your stress levels by practicing yoga and exercising regularly.
4. Reduce the Intake of Alcohol
It’s no secret that alcohol is not the healthiest choice and unfortunately daily alcohol consumption may increase your chances of experiencing tinnitus. Reduce and limit your intake of alcohol to reduce your blood pressure and as a result, your chances of ringing in the ear.
5. Stay Away From Noise
Exposure to noise and loud sounds is a very common cause for tinnitus and ringing in the ear. Avoid going to places known to have a loud environment, such as factories, construction areas, and concerts. If that’s not an option, protect your ears by wearing earplugs or hearing aids with loud noise protection features.
6. Avoid Smoking
Smoking can damage your blood vessels by preventing proper oxygen flow to your ears. The nicotine present in a cigarette can cause your blood pressure to shoot up, so if you’re a regular smoker but worried about your tinnitus worsening, try to limit the amount of cigarettes you smoke or cut them out completely.
7. Wear Hearing Aids
Hearing aids can help you manage your tinnitus and prevent it from worsening. Aside from helping you hear better and clearer, many hearing aid companies offer tinnitus masking features that block the frequencies known to cause it. There are many options available through your audiologist, over the counter in some countries and even online. We recommend HearGift’s V7 hearing aids for an affordable option.
Do you have any tips on alleviating tinnitus? If yes, we’d love to hear them! Leave a comment below or email us anytime at [email protected]
*Please note, the information listed in our blog, posts and forums is not and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult with your doctor for diagnostics, treatment and medical information and advice.