Auditory phantom sounds like buzzing or ringing in the ears is a frequent issue as people get older. This condition, clinically known as tinnitus, often results in significant confusion and emotional distress for older adults. Although the frequency of tinnitus increases among seniors, it is vital to recognize that not every instance is a standard consequence of the aging process.
You do not have to resignedly accept tinnitus as a standard part of the aging experience, especially when it interferes with your well-being. In this guide, we will examine the distinctions between age-related and non-age-related triggers, along with actionable steps for managing tinnitus.
Understanding Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the perception of sound without an external source. Individuals often characterize the sound as a high-pitched ring, though hissing, buzzing, or roaring are also common. It can be steady or sporadic, occur in one or both ears, and range from a minor nuisance to a debilitating issue.
Research cited by the National Library of Medicine reveals important trends among seniors:
- Approximately twenty percent of seniors have tinnitus.
- 1 in 10 of those affected find that tinnitus impacts their daily routine.
- There is a strong correlation showing that those with hearing loss have double the likelihood of tinnitus prevalence.
Persistent or high-volume tinnitus often contributes to significant emotional distress, including anxiety, exhaustion, and depression. Fortunately, there are many resources and treatments accessible to those who suffer. Before seeking help, it is important to understand whether your tinnitus is a result of aging or other factors.
Identifying Tinnitus Caused by Aging
One of the most common causes of tinnitus in seniors is age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis.
In these cases, tinnitus often:
- Develops gradually over time.
- Presents simultaneously with a decline in hearing ability.
- Sounds like high-pitched ringing or static.
- Is easier to detect when the surroundings are silent.
Non-Age-Related Triggers
It is important to look beyond age, as many cases of tinnitus are caused by treatable medical or environmental factors, like:
- Past contact with intense sound from machinery or military environments.
- The use of specific drugs, like certain antibiotics or specialized treatments.
- Cardiovascular conditions, including high blood pressure.
- Simple earwax blockage, which is a common and treatable cause of ringing.
Why Tinnitus Shouldn’t Be Dismissed
Yet, it is essential to realize that long-term tinnitus takes a toll on:
- Sleep hygiene.
- Mental capacity such as memory retention and daily attention.
- Your emotional stability and your overall level of stress.
- Your total well-being and social activities.
What You Can Do
- Utilizing hearing aids to provide the brain with more auditory input and lessen tinnitus focus.
- Using sound therapy programs designed to habituate the brain to the noise.
- Reviewing and adjusting current pharmaceuticals if they are found to be harmful to hearing.
- Adopting new habits that focus on stress reduction and better sleeping patterns.
Reach out to our clinical staff immediately to book your full evaluation. Our team is committed to supporting your auditory health.