Tinnitus, also known as a ringing in the ear, is a common condition experienced by nearly 50 million people in Louisville and around the country. While hearing a ringing is common, many also experience a hissing, roaring, whooshing or buzzing in one or both ears.
What Causes Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is a symptom, rather than a disorder itself. Common causes include:
- Presbycusis (age-related hearing loss)
- Noise exposure
- Impacted earwax
- Otosclerosis (stiffening of the bones in the middle ear)
- Meniere’s disease
- TMJ disorders
- Ototoxic medications
- Thyroid conditions
- Head or neck trauma
- Acoustic neuromas
- Fluid in the middle ear
- Ear infections
- High blood pressure
- Head and neck tumors
- Blocked arteries
Tinnitus Complications
In addition to hearing a sound that is not present, those who experience tinnitus may also experience:
- Fatigue
- Stress
- Sleep problems
- Trouble concentrating
- Memory problems
- Depression
- Anxiety and irritability
Improve Your Sleep
Sleep problems are especially troubling, as sleep plays a vital role in your physical health and wellbeing. Below are eight tips you can try incorporating into your daily routine to help you sleep better even with tinnitus.
- Create a bedtime ritual that you perform every night.
- Set a bedtime and stick to it.
- Clear your mind and perform relaxation exercises before going to bed.
- Keep your bedroom as dark as possible. Light-blocking curtains can help with this.
- Keep your bedroom cooler than the rest of your house.
- Do not use electronic devices (including watching television or using your phone) an hour before bed.
- White noise can be used to help block out the tinnitus. You can either purchase a white noise machine or utilize a fan, air conditioner or even soft music.
- Exercise regularly, as research shows those who exercise sleep better
You don’t have to simply learn to live with your tinnitus. Contact your Louisville audiologist today to get started.