Yet, despite its prevalence, tinnitus is often misunderstood. Today, we aim to set the record straight on what tinnitus is and isn't, providing you with a better understanding of its causes, symptoms, and when to seek help.
Yet, despite its prevalence, tinnitus is often misunderstood. Today, we aim to set the record straight on what tinnitus is and isn't, providing you with a better understanding of its causes, symptoms, and when to seek help.
Below, we address common myths and FAQs about tinnitus that we encourage you to share with loved ones.
Fact: In its milder form, tinnitus may be a temporary annoyance, having little impact on your life. Or it may be severe enough that it causes stress, sleeping problems, a lack of concentration, irritability or even depression.
Regardless of its severity, there is enough research to suggest a potential link between tinnitus and dementia, if your symptoms are the result of hearing loss, which is a known risk factor for cognitive decline. Therefore, it's best to consult with a local hearing care provider to explain your symptoms so your provider can identify the root cause and help you find relief and avoid worsening symptoms.
Not sure if you're covered for a hearing evaluation? Check your benefits for free!
Now that we've dispelled some common myths, let's dive into a few frequently asked questions about tinnitus.
Most people describe tinnitus as a random ringing in the ear for a few seconds. As mentioned earlier, tinnitus may be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as hearing loss or cardiovascular disease, that requires treatment.
Tinnitus may also be a symptom of the following:
Additionally, stress and anxiety can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms and some studies show a correlation between tinnitus and alcohol consumption.
It's not uncommon to experience temporary hearing loss or muffled hearing in one ear for a few seconds. This could be due to a variety of reasons such as changes in air pressure, ear wax buildup, or fluid in the ear.
However, if this issue persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness, pain, or tinnitus, it's important to consult a hearing care provider for further evaluation.
There are several steps you can take to manage tinnitus, including:
Remember that while there may not be a medical or surgical treatment for tinnitus, there are ways to manage its impact on your daily life. If you're experiencing tinnitus, whether mild or severe, be sure to talk to a hearing care provider.
Use our online tool to check your benefits, and connect with a local provider.
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