Tinnitus Triggers: Identifying Factors That Aggravate Ear Ringing

Of all the hearing conditions, hearing loss is the most common and tinnitus is a symptom of an underlying condition. This is because they can develop from a wide variety of influences, not all of them preventable. However, it’s true to say that like hearing loss, tinnitus can be managed and mitigated correctly. In order to achieve that, identifying factors that aggravate ear ringing helps you know which contributing scenarios to avoid. In this post, we’ll discuss the main influences worth considering.

Loud Noises

While some amount of hearing loss is commonly expected as people age, exposure to loud noise is certainly one of the most reliable predictors of the condition accelerating. The same is true of tinnitus – which is why your ears ring after hearing loud bangs or music. It’s important to keep your headphone volume at a manageable level, to always exercise your right to safety equipment like ear defenders if needed at work and to be mindful of your exposure to loud environments.

Dental Issues

Believe it or not, some dental issues can influence your tinnitus. This might include grinding your teeth, dental infections and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. It’s always best to contact an audiologist about your tinnitus but don’t be surprised if they refer you to a dentist for further inspection.

Stress and Anxiety

Anxiety and stress can cause many health issues and exacerbate tinnitus symptoms. This is why it’s healthy to implement positive lifestyle habits like meditation, exercise, good sleep, breathing techniques and asking for support where you need it. You can also counter some of the anxiety-inducing effects of tinnitus such as through sound masking or hearing aids with masking effects.

Earwax Buildup

Too much earwax can cause tinnitus, which is why it’s healthy to clear your ears appropriately. Don’t use cotton swabs to clean your inner ear, as this can only press the earwax down further into the canal. Safe earwax removal measures can help, such as over-the-counter earwax removal drops to soften the buildup and help the ear remove it itself or to gently remove excess with warm water and a clean cloth. If you have a buildup of wax talk to your audiologist about safely removing it.

Caffeine, Alcohol and Bad Lifestyle Habits

Like stress and anxiety, bad habits like consuming too much caffeine, alcohol and smoking can contribute to the effects of tinnitus. It’s good to limit or even quit these habits regardless, but especially so if you’re at risk for tinnitus coming and going.

Medications

Certain medications can cause tinnitus to flare up, even in those who may never have experienced it before. This is most common with high doses of anti-inflammatories. If you notice that your new medication is causing tinnitus, speak to your physician and audiologist to see what other options may be available.

With this advice, you’re sure to identify factors that contribute to your tinnitus. Contact an audiologist if you are experiencing any symptoms of tinnitus or hearing loss. They will be able to form a treatment plan tailored to your needs.