Tinnitus
10 tips to help push your tinnitus into the background
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First, have a comprehensive medical examination
If you have tinnitus, it is advisable to be thoroughly examined by an ENT specialist. In addition to inspecting the neck, nose, throat and ears, hearing tests and balance assessments are part of the work-up. Special procedures such as tympanometry or the stapedius reflex test can help determine the exact cause within the auditory system.
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Treat acute tinnitus promptly
When tinnitus appears suddenly, especially if accompanied by hearing loss, rapid treatment is crucial. Infusions to improve blood flow and anti-inflammatory medications can support the inner ear.
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Cause-oriented therapy for objective tinnitus
If tinnitus has a measurable cause, such as muscular disorders or circulatory problems, treatment is targeted. Specific medications for muscle spasms or correcting blockages in the cervical spine or jaw can reduce the ear noises.
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Use Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT)
TRT combines counselling with the use of a Noiser device. The Noiser device produces gentle sounds and trains the brain to ignore the tinnitus. The device should be worn regularly over several months. Many patients experience a substantial reduction in ear noise or learn to cope with it better.
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Don't make the ear noises the centre of attention
Avoid constantly focusing on the tinnitus. Instead, engage in hobbies or activities that distract you and bring enjoyment. This helps prevent a vicious circle of stress and heightened awareness of the sounds.
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Ensure comfortable rest with ambient sounds
Absolute silence can make tinnitus sounds especially intrusive. Use gentle background sounds such as soft music, nature sounds or an indoor fountain to relieve your ear. This can also help you fall asleep.
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Use protection against loud sounds
Wear hearing protection at noisy workplaces or concerts. Also keep the volume moderate when listening to music via headphones, as overloading the ears can worsen tinnitus.
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Avoid stress and reduce it regularly
Stress can intensify tinnitus. Allow yourself regular breaks and use relaxation techniques such as yoga or progressive muscle relaxation according to Jacobson. Physical activity, for example walking, also helps reduce stress and improves wellbeing.
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Have muscle tensions treated
Tense muscles in the cervical spine and jaw area can affect blood flow to the inner ear and worsen tinnitus. Professional massages, lymphatic drainage and physiotherapy can release blockages and alleviate the ear noises.
- Check your dietary habits
Avoid alcohol, caffeine and other stimulants, as they can affect blood circulation. A balanced diet supports your overall health and may help prevent worsening of tinnitus.
editorial.facts
- Tinnitus presents as internal ear noises such as buzzing or ringing that do not come from outside but arise from processes within the body, often due to inner ear disorders.
- The brain also plays a role: it interprets neural signals and can perceive tones due to malfunction, even when there is no sound source — creating a phantom sound for sufferers.
- Tinnitus can occur acutely and often resolves within three months. It can, however, become chronic and persist long term, which can significantly affect wellbeing.
- The most common form is subjective tinnitus, which is audible only to the affected person. Rare cases of objective tinnitus can be heard or measured by others, for example when blood flow in the ear is the cause.
