Persistent ringing, buzzing, or humming sound in the ears is known as tinnitus. Living with this condition can be challenging—bordering unbearable.
But it affects so many people globally. About 750 million people have tinnitus.
The fact that tinnitus affects millions of people doesn’t imply that it’s fine to live with it. In the hands of a good ENT specialist, you should be able to make the symptoms that come with tinnitus less noticeable. To learn about an ENT specialist that can help with tinnitus in Singapore, please follow this link: https://drsomaent.com/condition/tinnitus/.
In this guide, we will help you understand what ringing in the ears really is. We will explain the causes, treatment options and most importantly, the best strategies to manage the symptoms.
What are the First Signs of Tinnitus?
To begin with, tinnitus is the perception of sound in the absence of any external source. It can manifest in different ways as the symptoms of tinnitus tend to vary significantly from patient to patient.
Generally though many patients report phantom sounds which may be heard in just one ear or both ears. You may also hear the phantom sounds in your head and they may manifest in various ways including;
- Buzzing
- Hissing
- Roaring
- Squealing
- Humming
- Whistling or
- Clicking
Just like the symptoms, the underlying causes of tinnitus can vary. Depending on your situation, the persistent ringing in your ears may be due to exposure to loud noises, age-related hearing loss, and earwax blockage.
It may also be due to the medications you’re on especially if you’ve taken them in high dosages. That said, even when seeking ringing ears treatment, it is important to note that this condition itself is not a disease. Instead, it is a symptom of an underlying issue.
Can you live a Normal Life with Tinnitus?
If you’ve just started experiencing the impacts that come with tinnitus, it is natural to wonder whether it is possible to live a normal life without seeking ringing ears treatment. Here’s a simple answer;
Living with tinnitus can be absolutely frustrating. But with the right coping strategies, many people with tinnitus still lead normal and fulfilling lives. So, it is possible to live a normal life with tinnitus provided that you implement the right coping strategies.
Before trying any coping strategies for tinnitus, please consult with an ENT for ringing ears treatment. A specialist like an ENT doctor will help you identify the underlying cause of your problem.
After that, you can work together with them on an individualized treatment plan to manage your conditions. And there are several approaches that can be adopted depending on your case. These include;
-
Medical Approaches for Ringing Ears Treatment
First things first, there is no single magic pill that can cure tinnitus completely. However, there are medications that can help manage certain aspects of tinnitus.
Your ENT specialist may prescribe medications like tricyclic antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or even certain types of antianxiety drugs. These medications aim to alleviate the symptoms associated with tinnitus, for example anxiety and depression.
· Non-Medical Management of Tinnitus
In addition to medical interventions, there are several non-medical strategies that can help manage tinnitus effectively. These include;
1. Lifestyle changes and self-care practices
-
- Stress reduction techniques: Stress can make ringing in the ears worse. So, it helps to find a way of managing your stress levels. Your doctor may recommend engaging in activities that help reduce stress, like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
- Healthy sleep habits: Establish a regular sleep routine and create a conducive sleep environment. Consider using a white noise machine or a fan to mask the ringing sound and promote better sleep.
- Diet and nutrition considerations: Some individuals find that reducing caffeine and alcohol consumption can alleviate tinnitus symptoms. Also, maintaining a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients may promote overall ear health.
2. Sound therapy and masking
-
- Background noise and white noise machines: Background noise can help distract from the ringing sound and provide relief. Play soft, calming music or use a white noise machine to mask the tinnitus.
- Tinnitus retraining therapy: This therapeutic approach combines sound therapy with counseling to help individuals habituate to the tinnitus sound. Over time, the brain learns to filter out the tinnitus signal. This can help reduce its perceived intensity.
3. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
-
- Addressing psychological aspects of tinnitus: Tinnitus can lead to anxiety, depression, and frustration. CBT can help you reframe negative thoughts. This therapy can also help you manage stress, and develop coping mechanisms to improve your emotional well-being.
- Coping strategies and relaxation techniques: Learning relaxation techniques, like progressive muscle relaxation or guided imagery can also provide relief from the distress associated with tinnitus.
· Continued Support
We get it; living with tinnitus can be emotionally challenging. But the good news is that there are resources available to provide support and guidance. These include;
- Educating oneself about tinnitus: Understanding the condition can help reduce anxiety. It can also help empower you to take an active role in managing your symptoms.
- Support groups and counseling services: Connecting with others who experience tinnitus can provide valuable support. Professional counseling services can also help you navigate the emotional impact of tinnitus. Counseling can also help you cultivate effective coping strategies.
- Seeking professional help for mental health concerns: If tinnitus is significantly affecting your mental health and quality of life, consider seeking help from a mental health professional who specializes in tinnitus-related distress.
When should I be Concerned about Ear Ringing?
If you’re experiencing ringing in the ears after an exposure to loud noise for example after a concert, you could be dealing with a temporary tinnitus. This ringing may come with muffled sounds and it should clear within 16 to 48 hours.
You should be concerned about tinnitus and consult a specialist for ringing ears treatment if you experience persistent tinnitus. This could be ringing that lasts several weeks.
Seeing a specialist is important because persistent ringing could actually be indicative of an underlying health condition that needs attention. Also, you should be concerned with ringing ears if it is accompanied by;
- Sudden hearing loss
- Dizziness or
- Severe headaches
Closing Thoughts
Living with tinnitus can be challenging. However, with proper strategies for managing the symptoms, you should be able regain control over your life.
If the ringing persists, to consult with an ENT specialist to help you determine the underlying cause of your tinnitus. After that, they will help develop a personalized plan for ringing ears treatment.
Connect with us today for expert care and personalized treatment options if you’re ready to find relief from ringing ears in Singapore. Schedule your consultation today to get started. Details:
Dr Soma – Allergy & Sinus ENT Specialist @ Parkway East | Earwax Removal | Sinus Surgery Singapore
321 Joo Chiat Pl,
#05-01 Parkway East Specialist Hospital,
Singapore 427990
+65 6517 9760
