A high-pitched ringing or buzzing noise in your ear that does not ever stop? Could get worse with other forms of noise in your environment? Sounds very much like Tinnitus. A noise only you can hear.
People who work in a noisy environment, use headphones all day, every day; and smoke is at risk of developing Tinnitus. It could also be a result of other factors like age [55 years and above], cardiovascular disease.
Causes could range from the blocked ear canal, too much ear wax, tumours in the head and neck, blood vessel disorders to medications such as certain antibiotics and cancer drugs.
Tinnitus can be a lifelong condition. In cases where it is caused by an underlying condition [as such, cannot be referred to as a disease [it is a damage to the ear or auditory system] once it is treated, the high-pitched noise may go away.
As with cases with tinnitus caused by medication, the noise stops most times when the drug is stopped. Tinnitus affects people differently causing sleep problems, memory problems and trouble concentrating.
Tinnitus might come as a loud noise and stop frequently till it becomes permanent. It has no cure and is considered permanent after a 6month mark.
However, it can be managed.
The level of the noise you hear cannot be controlled however if you notice certain kind of noises which makes it worse, avoid such noises.
Worrying more about the noise in your head can increase anxiety and depression to the realization that Tinnitus has no cure. Letting go can help you cope with the noise.
Available drugs for Tinnitus are drugs that help improve your mood or help you sleep, waiting for a miracle drug could only cause you more worries.
You can still live your life irrespective of this condition and anxiety will only prevent that. Have a daily goal to always hold on to the good things of life and worry less.
Tinnitus can be prevented.
When wearing headphones, turn down the volume to the minimum, have days where you do not wear headphones at all.
Limit your exposure to prolonged noise. Use hearing protection if you cannot avoid loud noises.
Eat healthy, exercise and limit the use of caffeine and alcohol to help your cardiovascular health.
Irrespective of it not having a cure, there are a few cases where this noise in the ear went away. Coping with Tinnitus is cultivating a better attitude to living with it.
