Are you one of the many people around the world who feel as though they’re fighting an incessant battle with that persistent whistling or ringing sound in the ears? You’re not alone.
That often-unrelenting noise is known as tinnitus, an occurrence that can range from mildly annoying to completely debilitating. In fact, it was reported last year that there may be as many as 750 million people worldwide suffering from tinnitus.
It should be noted that tinnitus itself isn’t a disease, but rather a symptom of various different medical conditions. Tinnitus, therefore, cannot be cured by healthcare professionals. However, despite the frustration it can bring, be reassured that there are also a multitude of methods available that might help manage its symptoms.
Of course, it’s essential to remember that medical advice should always be sought when dealing with health conditions like tinnitus. These approaches should be used alongside, not instead of, professional medical advice and treatments, and only with their advance approval.
Sound Therapy
Sound therapy leverages external noises to alter the individual’s perception of, or reaction to, tinnitus. This can include white noise machines, fans, soft music or even the ambient sounds of nature. By helping mask the tinnitus, these sounds can promote relaxation and reduce the impact of the noise.
Read: How to make living in London a little less noisy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Tinnitus can often have a significant psychological impact, leading to stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbance. CBT, a form of psychological talking therapy, can be employed to help change the way you think about your tinnitus, reducing anxiety and aiding in symptom management.
Apps such as Oto, a dedicated one-stop-shop for tinnitus support, also provide access to CBT alongside other forms of 1-1 advice on dealing with its symptoms.
Mindfulness & Relaxation
Techniques like mindfulness and meditation can help by drawing your focus away from the noise of tinnitus and towards a calmer, more relaxed state of mind. Yoga, tai chi and progressive muscle relaxation are other strategies that can be combined with breathing exercises to help manage stress levels.
Read: The potential benefits of an employee mindfulness program
Leading A Healthy Lifestyle
Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet can contribute to overall well-being and, in turn, may help manage tinnitus symptoms. Avoid potential triggers such as loud noises, caffeine, alcohol and stress, while promoting beneficial habits such as hydration and relaxation.
Tinnitus Support Groups
When battling tinnitus, it can be extremely helpful to connect with others who are also experiencing this condition. These groups can offer emotional support, foster a sense of shared experience, and provide practical tips that others have found helpful. People can visit the Tinnitus UK website, which has a dedicated section of support groups. More details about this can be found here.
Potentially Helpful Natural Remedies For Tinnitus Symptoms
For centuries, sufferers have attempted to manage these irksome symptoms utilising an array of natural remedies.
While it is of cardinal importance to consult a medical professional regarding health complications, this blog post aims to shed light on some potentially effective natural remedies for tinnitus. Remember that these remedies may not be a panacea, but can certainly be a part of a comprehensive management plan.
- Ginkgo Biloba: This ancient tree species, a living fossil if you will, has been utilised for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. Ginkgo leaf extracts are alleged to improve circulation to the brain, potentially helping to reduce tinnitus symptoms. However, the efficacy of Ginkgo Biloba in treating tinnitus is still a subject of ongoing research, with doubts cast by professional bodies in recent years.
- Zinc Supplements: A lack of zinc can sometimes lead to tinnitus. In such cases, taking zinc supplements may help. Foods rich in zinc, such as oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds, can also be incorporated into the diet. However, it’s important to remember that an excess of zinc can instigate health issues, so it’s vital to stay within the recommended daily allowance.
- Coenzyme Q10: This naturally occurring substance is thought to have antioxidant and energy-enhancing effects. Some studies suggest that coenzyme Q10 supplements might improve tinnitus symptoms, especially in those with low levels of this substance.
- Acupuncture: This age-old practice hailing from traditional Chinese medicine involves the insertion of fine needles at certain points on the body. Some tinnitus sufferers have reported an improvement in their symptoms following acupuncture treatment, though more rigorous scientific research is needed to confirm these anecdotal findings.
The Bottom Line
Remember, tinnitus is unique to each individual, and what works for one person may not work for another. It can be a process of trial and error to find which strategies are most effective for you. Above all, remain patient with yourself during this journey. Management of tinnitus can be a challenging road, but by exploring various approaches and connecting with others, you may find new ways to make the journey smoother.
*The content of this blog post is intended to provide supportive advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns.*