Tinnitus is characterized by a persistent ringing or buzzing sound in one or both ears, even when there is no external sound. According to the National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), about 10% of the U.S. population experiences this condition. If you’re among those who have tinnitus symptoms, you might be seeking ways to manage your symptoms without compromising your work productivity.
Effects of Tinnitus
The effects of tinnitus vary from person to person, but some common side effects include:
• Feelings of depression or anxiety
• Problems with sleep or concentration
• Increased perception of tinnitus symptoms linked to increased stress levels (often, the more heightened your stress levels, the worse your tinnitus symptoms can appear).
These symptoms can adversely affect overall well-being, often leading to added challenges at work or home.
Managing Tinnitus Symptoms
Several strategies can help manage tinnitus symptoms, reducing their overall impact on your life and helping you maintain focus at work. Your doctor can assist you with finding the most suitable treatment for you.
Tinnitus management strategies include:
• Acoustic therapy: This involves using externally produced sounds to mask, inhibit or alter the perception of tinnitus. Your doctor can guide you through this process.
• Counseling or cognitive-behavioral therapy: These therapeutic approaches can help alleviate the stress associated with tinnitus symptoms.
• Stress management techniques: Practices such as yoga or meditation at YogaSix Studio can help manage stress levels.
• Support groups: Joining a support group can provide a platform to share experiences and coping strategies.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce tinnitus symptoms.
• Music therapy: Certain types of music can help distract the mind from the constant ringing or buzzing.
• Dietary changes: Avoiding stimulants like caffeine and nicotine can help manage symptoms.
• Noise control: Limit exposure to loud noise and avoid complete silence.
Living with tinnitus can affect everyday life, so finding the most effective management strategy for your symptoms is crucial. This will ensure you remain engaged and productive at work.
If you have any questions about tinnitus or wish to have your hearing checked, schedule an appointment with North Shore Audio-Vestibular Lab.