Tinnitus is the perception of sounds when no actual sound is present. Sounds can include ringing, buzzing, hissing and other sounds, and tinnitus can have negative impacts on quality of life. Nearly 10% of American adults have experienced tinnitus episodes lasting five minutes or longer in the past year.
Tinnitus has various causes and is often linked to hearing loss, and people may not often consider how the city they live in may impact their tinnitus symptoms. In Houston, there are three primary risks that contribute to the worsening of tinnitus symptoms, including:
Noise Pollution
Houston is known for its multiple entertainment options, but that also means it’s a hotspot for noise pollution. Many major cities present noise pollution risks ranging from construction sites in areas with growing populations to concerts at the Toyota Center or local bars.
Consistent exposure to loud environments, particularly environments with sounds over 85 dB, presents a risk to hearing. Over time, this noise exposure can aggravate tinnitus, making it more persistent and harder to ignore.
Traffic Noise and Its Effects
As a rapidly growing city, Houston has significant traffic, and this form of noise pollution could be another significant contributor to tinnitus. Frequent honking and the constant drone of engines in the high numbers experienced in Houston can have an impact on hearing. For people already prone to tinnitus, this ongoing noise can make the condition worse, adding to their stress levels and intensifying the ringing in their ears.
Lifestyle Stress
Many cities like Houston often present fast-paced lifestyles that have the potential to increase stress. Stress is a common trigger for tinnitus episodes. The connection between stress and tinnitus isn’t always direct, but many people with the condition find that their symptoms worsen when they’re feeling overwhelmed.
Practicing stress management techniques, such as yoga, meditation or even taking time out of your busy day to unwind, can go a long way in keeping tinnitus symptoms under control.
Factors that impact tinnitus symptoms vary no matter where a person lives. Being aware of what makes your environment unique can help you to find management options that work best for your symptoms.
To learn more about what could be impacting your tinnitus symptoms and the best ways to manage the condition, schedule a consultation with Hearing Systems today.