How to Combat Common Tinnitus Symptoms

The ringing, buzzing or whooshing in your ears can be quite distracting. However, there’s no need to worry too much. While there isn’t a universal cure for tinnitus, many effective strategies can help manage its symptoms and significantly enhance your quality of life. It’s essential to keep in mind that what works for one person may not work for another. Tinnitus is a personal experience with specific underlying causes, and finding the right management approach often requires guidance from an audiologist. Some individuals may experience significant improvement through lifestyle changes, like cognitive therapy, while others might benefit from wearing hearing aids.

With the right approach and support, many people easily manage their tinnitus symptoms have a better quality of life. So, what are some effective strategies to combat those tinnitus symptoms?

Sound Therapy

One of the most popular and impressively effective ways to combat tinnitus is through sound therapy. This means using sounds to mask or distract from the internal ringing or buzzing so you don’t notice it. You can do this through one of many means. White noise machines, nature sound apps or a fan running in the background can help drown out the tinnitus noise quite well. Some people find comfort by listening to low-level background music or ambient sounds. There are even specialized hearing aids and devices designed specifically for tinnitus relief that can be tuned to sound mask for you.

Managing the Stress of Tinnitus

Stress and anxiety can often contribute to tinnitus symptoms. You might stress about having tinnitus, which can impact tinnitus and the circle goes on and on that way. Learning relaxation techniques can help break this cycle and provide some relief when you need it most. Don’t discount these, they really can help. For example, deep breathing exercises, muscle relaxation and mindfulness meditation are all tools for managing stress and, in turn, reducing the intensity of tinnitus. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has also been known to help you change thought patterns. Your audiologist will help you to find the right treatment for you, if you are dealing with tinnitus.

Making Changes to Your Lifestyle

Sometimes, little changes in your daily habits can make a huge difference in how tinnitus symptoms are present. Limiting your time around loud noises, reducing caffeine and alcohol consumption and getting regular exercise can all help a great deal. Some people find that certain foods or beverages trigger or worsen their symptoms, so keeping a diary to track these triggers can be very wise indeed. Also, make sure you are getting enough sleep to help reduce your symptoms of tinnitus.

These are just a few treatment options to help reduce your symptoms of tinnitus. Your audiologist can talk with you in-depth about the different options available and can tailor your options to suit your tinnitus symptoms and any underlying condition you are experiencing. If you want to learn more about the common treatments for tinnitus, schedule an appointment with an audiologist.