Tinnitus

What Are Some Causes Of Tinnitus? 

Whatever the trigger for tinnitus, it causes a change to the transmission of the signal going from the ear to the part of the brain where sound is processed, known as the auditory cortex. This means that some parts of the auditory cortex do not receive signals as they used to. In some people, this area reacts by developing spontaneous ‘chatter’, which becomes synchronised to create the illusion of sound. Over time, this firing pattern is strengthened and the tinnitus can become a constant sound.

The following factors are known to be involved in the development of tinnitus:

Hearing Loss 

Tinnitus often occurs along with some degree of hearing loss. But around one in every three people with tinnitus does not have any problem with their hearing.

Exposure To Loud Noise

Noise is one of the most common causes of hearing loss. A single incident experienced at close range may permanently damage your hearing in an instant. Repeated exposures to loud noise over an extended period of time present serious risks to human hearing and thus lead to tinnitus.

Injury To The Ears Or Head 

For more than one in ten suffering chronic tinnitus ,the problem stems from a neck or head injury.

Ear Infection 

Any ear infection can cause blockage of hearing, and so make the occurrence of tinnitus more likely.

Diseases Of The Ear 

There are several diseases of the ear that can occur in an otherwise healthy person, all of which can cause hearing loss and so make the occurrence of tinnitus more likely.

Side Effect Of Medication

Certain medications, both prescription and over the counter, can cause tinnitus. Tinnitus is cited as a potential side effect for about 200 prescription and non-prescription drugs.

Emotional Stress 

How you manage your tinnitus may have a connection with the level of stress you are under. If you have a high level of stress there is a greater chance that you will be troubled by your tinnitus.

Ways To Manage Tinnitus 

Learn To Relax 

Sometimes worrying about tinnitus can make it more noticeable, so learning to relax can help provide relief. Slowing down the rate of breathing and relaxing your muscles are examples of simple relaxation exercises you can try.

Avoid Silence

Increasing the ambient noise can help you stop focusing on your tinnitus. Some people find playing background music or other regular sound can be beneficial.

Protect Your Hearing But Avoid Earplug Overuse 

Protect your hearing when you are in a particularly noisy environment. However, do not be tempted to wear earplugs away from these situations.

Keep Active

It is important to try to keep active and involved in your usual activities or hobbies as this can help to take your focus away from your tinnitus.

Keep Healthy

Obviously, being as healthy as possible is good for your general well being. If you find certain foods or drinks or activities seem to aggravate your tinnitus, consider reducing them.

Medications

Medications such as Tebonin Forte and Tanakan have been shown in some studies to be effective in providing some relief for tinnitus.