An estimated 10% to 25% of adults live with tinnitus. A life with tinnitus is often accompanied by stress, lack of sleep, poor concentration and more. Many individuals will feel the impact of tinnitus in their working and personal relationships.
What Causes Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is characterized by the perception of sound, most often described as a ringing, buzzing or humming, in the absence of any external noise. While most cases of tinnitus sound do not have a physical source, the condition itself can come from any number of causes, including but not limited to:
- Hearing loss
- Physical trauma
- Loud noise exposure
- Ototoxic medication (medication that damages the hearing mechanisms of the ear)
Tinnitus has no known cure, but several techniques and tools are available to help you manage your symptoms and reduce their adverse effect on your life.
Managing Your Tinnitus Symptoms
Three tools for managing your tinnitus symptoms include sound therapy devices, mobile apps and mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Let’s take a look at each of these a little more closely.
Sound Therapy Devices
Sound therapy is an excellent option for managing tinnitus symptoms. Sound therapy devices generate soothing sounds, such as white noise or nature sounds, to mask or distract from the internal ringing of tinnitus. Because your brain can only focus on one source of noise at once, the relaxing external sounds will help prevent you from zeroing in on your tinnitus. Sound therapy devices may include sound machines, hearing aids and smartphone apps. Explore different options to find the one that works best for you.
Because hearing loss is often the source of your tinnitus, you may already be wearing hearing aids. Make an appointment with your hearing aid specialist to discuss how you can program your devices to help manage tinnitus symptoms as well as reduce the impact of hearing loss.
Mobile Apps for Tinnitus Relief
Mobile apps are becoming increasingly popular for managing tinnitus. These apps offer a range of features, including customizable soundscapes, relaxation exercises, stretching and movement techniques and educational resources. They can be a convenient and portable tool to help you find relief from tinnitus symptoms wherever you are.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Stress is one of the most common triggers for tinnitus. Mindfulness meditation, yoga and deep breathing exercises are a few techniques that can help you manage stress, improve sleep quality and minimize the impact of tinnitus on your daily life. Consider taking a class at the Houston Zen Center to further reduce stress. By using sound therapy, mobile apps and mindfulness and relaxation techniques, you can find relief and improve your quality of life.
Living with tinnitus doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. To learn more about managing your tinnitus, contact Hearing Systems today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.