If it seems like your ears ring constantly, it’s probably not your imagination, and you’re not alone. You may have tinnitus, an inner ear ailment that affects between 25 million to 50 million. The good news is treatment, including hearing aids, can offer relief to some suffering from the persistent ringing, buzzing or humming associated with tinnitus.
Tinnitus can be intermittent or constant. Causes range from ear infections and over-exposure to extremely loud noises, to underlying health problems like allergies or high blood pressure.
An American Tinnitus Association survey found that eight out of 10 patients reported some tinnitus relief when using hearing aids.
The symptoms of tinnitus influence basic life functions such as socialization and relaxation. Not only can hearing be affected, but also the ability to sleep and to concentrate. In severe cases it can interfere with the individual’s ability to perform adequately on the job. It can also cause depression, anxiety and anger.
Although tinnitus can cause major life disruptions, the number of sufferers who seek treatment for the problem is relatively small. Many think they must just live with the noise. One reason may be that they mistakenly believe their condition is untreatable. Unfortunately, many doctors are also unaware of treatment options. No one should ever ignore persistent tinnitus. In rare cases tinnitus can be a symptom of a more serious health issue that could demand medical intervention.
What’s more, nearly everyone with tinnitus has hearing loss as well, which can result in an even more diminished quality of life than individuals with just tinnitus or just hearing loss alone.
While hearing aids are not a cure for tinnitus, they may be able to help tinnitus patients by:
• Improving communication and reducing stress, which makes it easier to cope with
the condition.
• Amplifying background sounds, which can make tinnitus seem less loud and prom
inent. If you think you have tinnitus, have your hearing evaluated by an audiologist.
The American Academy of Otolaryngology and the American Tinnitus Association recommends these additional tips for minimizing the effects of tinnitus on your health:
• Avoid exposure to loud sounds and noises.
• Get your blood pressure checked. If it is high, get your doctor’s help to control it.
• Decrease your intake of salt. Salt impairs blood circulation.
• Avoid stimulants such as coffee, tea, cola, and tobacco.
• Exercise daily to improve your circulation.
• Get adequate rest and avoid fatigue.
If you have tinnitus or if you simply have difficulty understanding what people are saying, and you would like more info about the new technologies available, contact Nola Aronson, M.A., Patrice Rifkind, Au.D., Ginny Newman, Au.D. or Nina Ball, M.S. of Audiology Associates at 661-288-1400.