Living and Coping With Tinnitus

Tinnitus can be a debilitating condition that can affect your life and your mood. Here are some helpful tips to help you cope with the constant noise:

• Stress and anxiety can stimulate a hearing system that’s already sensitive, so if possible, try to avoid anxiety or stress, if all possible.
  Get enough rest. Fatigue can trigger tinnitus.
• Stimulants can also cause symptoms to flare up. Avoid coffee, alcohol, and nicotine (smoking).
• Double up on the pillows. Sleeping with your head propped up can help stave off symptoms. When your head is propped up in an elevated position, head congestion is lessened and your symptoms will be less noticeable.
• Add some background noise. Tinnitus symptoms tend to be most noticeable when you’ve just slipped into bed, so introducing light background noise like a softly playing radio or ticking clock may help.
• Use your hearing aid. Hearing aids can amplify outside noise and may help mask your tinnitus symptoms.
• Avoid noisy situations that can damage your hearing any further. If you know you need to be in a situation with excessive noise, always wear protective ear wear.
• Talk to someone. Seeing a therapist for counseling about tinnitus may help you feel better about your situation. You’ll learn valuable coping skills as well.
• See your doctor. In some cases, tinnitus can be treated with antibiotics. This may be helpful for patients who suffer from tinnitus due to a middle ear infection.

For more information and guidance about your tinnitus, speak with an audiologist at the Hearing and Balance Centers of West Tennessee. Call us at our Memphis or Jackson locations today.