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Tinnitus is the word for when you hear sounds like ringing, buzzing, hissing, or clicking in your ears, but there’s no actual noise around you. It’s a pretty common condition and can range from mildly annoying to disruptive, depending on the person and the intensity. Some people hear it constantly, while others only notice it occasionally. Some tinnitus that occurs every so often and lasts for a brief period, usually preceded by a decrease in hearing or muffling, can be normal or transient tinnitus.
What Causes Tinnitus?
Common causes of tinnitus include:
Hearing Loss: Age-related or due to loud noise exposure.
Ear Issues: Wax buildup, infections, or blockages.
Medications: Some drugs can cause or worsen tinnitus.
Health Conditions: High blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, or TMJ disorders.
Injuries: Head or neck injuries can affect your hearing system.
What Does Tinnitus Feel Like?
Besides the sounds, you might experience:
Trouble focusing
Difficulty sleeping
Stress or anxiety
Feeling irritable
How Is Tinnitus Diagnosed and Treated?
If tinnitus sticks around, see a healthcare provider. They might:
Check your ears
Do hearing tests
Order imaging tests if needed
Coping with Tinnitus
While there isn’t a cure for Tinnitus, there are things you can do to help improve your symptoms.
Protect your ears from loud noises. This will help the tinnitus from getting worse.
Practice stress-reducing activities like meditation or yoga. Stress can be a major contributor
Cut back on caffeine and alcohol, which can make it worse.
If you have hearing loss, wearing hearing aids can help with your hearing and tinnitus symptoms.
Sound Therapy (background noises such as the ocean waves, rain, etc.) can help mask the tinnitus.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps manage stress and reactions to tinnitus.
Not a cure, but some medications can help with symptoms.
When to See a Doctor
Get help if you have:
Sudden hearing loss
Dizziness or balance problems
Tinnitus after a head injury
Severe anxiety or depression
Final Thoughts
Tinnitus can be frustrating, but there are ways to manage it. Understanding what’s going on and getting the right support can make a big difference. If tinnitus is affecting your life, reach out to a hearing professional—you don’t have to deal with it alone.
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