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Hear for the Holidays
The holiday season is filled with joyful sounds : the church choir , children ’ s laughter , and festive conversations . However , if tinnitus is clouding your celebrations , you might not fully enjoy these moments . Fortunately , tinnitus can be managed , and there are ways to find relief .
WHAT IS TINNITUS ?
Tinnitus is not a disease but a symptom of an underlying condition . It involves persistent ringing , whooshing , or buzzing in one or both ears that only the affected person can hear . Tinnitus may be occasional for some or constant for others . The American Tinnitus Association estimates that more than 50 million Americans experience it at least occasionally .
WHAT CAUSES TINNITUS ? According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery ( AAO-HNS ), tinnitus can be classified as primary or secondary . Primary tinnitus usually results from hearing loss , while secondary tinnitus is linked to specific underlying conditions that might be treatable . Possible causes include :
• Hearing loss ( age-related or noise-induced )
• Ototoxic drugs
• Head trauma
• Sinus pressure or congestion
• Ear pressure from obstructions
• Traumatic brain injury
• Stress
• Eardrum blockage
• Jaw joint disorders In rare cases , tinnitus may be caused by blood vessel disorders , resulting in pulsatile tinnitus , which sounds like a heartbeat . This can be due to tumors , cholesterol buildup , high blood pressure , turbulent blood flow , or capillary malformations around the ear .
TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR TINNITUS
While there ’ s no one-size-fits-all cure for tinnitus , various treatments and lifestyle changes can offer relief . An evaluation by an otologist can help determine the specific causes and guide an individualized treatment plan . Possible approaches include :
1 . Medical Treatments and Lifestyle Adjustments
• Hearing Aids : For those with hearing loss , today ’ s hearing technology can improve overall hearing and reduce tinnitus perception .
• Masking Devices : These include electronic maskers that produce low-level sounds to counteract tinnitus . Bedside sound generators can also help .
• Tinnitus Retraining Therapy ( TRT ): This combines sound therapy and counseling to alter the brain ’ s response to tinnitus , making it less noticeable .
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT ): This counseling technique addresses the emotional response to tinnitus , helping to manage stress and negative thought patterns .
2 . Home-Based Strategies
• Identify Triggers : Notice and minimize exposure to irritants that worsen tinnitus .
• Sound Masking : Use white noise from fans , music , or radio static to make tinnitus less noticeable .
• Stress Management : Reduce stress through relaxation techniques , such as meditation .
• Diet and Lifestyle : Limit alcohol , caffeine , and over-the-counter medications that might aggravate tinnitus . Exercise regularly and ensure adequate sleep .
GET RELIEF THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Identifying the type of tinnitus you experience and understanding the factors that affect it are crucial steps toward finding relief . This holiday season , give yourself the gift of better hearing and a more enjoyable experience .
You can contact HearWell Center to schedule an appointment and explore personalized solutions at 412.208.4473 .
ABOUT HEARWELL CENTER HearWell Center has been serving the Pittsburgh community since 2007 . As a full-service independent hearing care business , it specializes in state-of-the-art diagnostic testing and expert fitting of hearing technology . The team has helped thousands improve their hearing and manage tinnitus effectively . Visit hearwellcenter . com or call 412.208.4473 to schedule an appointment at its new , state-of-the-art location in Penn Center East .
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412.208.4473
HearWellCenter . com
400 Penn Center Blvd , Bldg 4 , Ste 777 , Pittsburgh
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