Mythbusting Tinnitus

If you’ve ever heard ringing, humming, hissing, or a sudden loss of hearing, followed by a high pitched, whiney sound in your hear — that’s tinnitus. It’s an internal sound that may persist, or come and go. The way tinnitus affects hearing is different to everyone, and it is as unique as your own fingerprints. Due to the way it is manifested, sometimes it may be difficult for someone to tell whether they have tinnitus or not. Generally, if you are hearing sounds that you know are not there, that is an indication of tinnitus, and it is best to seek out a professional who can perform a hearing evaluation for the full diagnosis. In a hearing test, you are asked to enter a soundproofed room, and your hearing will be examined in this space.  You can book a hearing test with Evear Hearing by clicking here.

Tinnitus. What is it, really?

Tinnitus itself is not a disease, and can’t be transmitted from person to person. It is a symptom of another underlying issue which may not always be clear of its source. The best way to determine the source and a solution is to speak with a Hearing Specialist.

Myth: Tinnitus only happens to old people.

Yes, it may seem that tinnitus disproportionately affect our beloved senior citizens, but that is only because hearing loss and deterioration is a part of aging! For many people, hearing gets worse as you age. On average, this begins around 60, and it affects both ears. However, because hearing loss is not the only cause of tinnitus, it can happen to anyone, at any age.

Myth: Tinnitus goes away by itself.

Unless it is caused by an external factor, such as medication or an infection, or a sudden exposure to loud noises, tinnitus generally do not go away. It’s not just in your head, and you are not imagining it! People who live with tinnitus may sometimes be too embarrassed about their condition to seek treatment because “nobody else can hear it” but that is simply not true!

Myth: Tinnitus only comes from listening to loud music

While listening to loud music may lead to hearing loss and tinnitus, it is not the only culprit! Anyone can get it at any age, and sometimes there may not be an obvious reason for it. Other causes that could manifest tinnitus include an ear infection, reaction to medication, or being unwell. The best way to determine the cause of tinnitus is to speak with a specialist!

Myth: Tinnitus is harmless.

Yes, tinnitus by itself is harmless, but it can be an indication of hearing loss, or the result of a more severe medical condition. Sudden onset of tinnitus may suggest a change in your overall health, and the best way to be sure is to have a professional evaluate your hearing via a hearing test. At Evear Hearing, the hearing test is free, and our Professional Hearing Specialists can help you manage and relief the symptoms of tinnitus! Give us a call to book your appointment now! One simple phone call can save you the stress of fighting tinnitus alone. Our Professional Hearing Specialists are ready and waiting to help! Constantly touching or rubbing ears may be a sign of tinnitus. Many people try to “rub out” the ringing when it gets unbearable.

Myth: Certain foods, home remedies, or medicine can cure tinnitus — even temporarily.

This one is tricky. Many people on internet forums swear on ‘tapping the back of your head’ as the end-all to tinnitus, but to date, there is no scientific research or evidence that any food, medication, or home remedies would positive impact tinnitus or hearing loss. In fact, most of these internet rumors are entirely made up. At best, they are fake news, and at worst they are harmful to your health. When in doubt, you should always contact your healthcare provider to speak with a Hearing Specialist to determine the best way to manage symptoms of tinnitus!

Myth: There is nothing I can do about tinnitus

There is constant research being done on tinnitus because it affects an estimated 4% to 30% of the population! There are new technology being developed every single day to address those living with tinnitus, and there are many options to managing symptoms of tinnitus!

Myth: If there is no cure, then there is no real help.

Well, we know that’s simply not true. Tinnitus is often a symptom of hearing loss or hearing deterioration, and many people find using hearing aids the most beneficial lifestyle change they can make! There are several ways that hearing aids combat tinnitus, but the most common one is to amplify normal day-to-day noises to drown out the ringing, hissing, or whirling sounds associated with tinnitus! Contact us today and we can help you make that transition to a better tomorrow! Click Here to make an appointment with our specialists!