Many older adults notice ongoing buzzing or ringing sounds that lack an outside origin. These sounds, known as tinnitus, can trigger frustration and disorientation for many older patients. Although the prevalence of tinnitus increases among seniors, it is vital to understand that not every instance is a standard consequence of the aging process.
Tinnitus can interrupt and compromise your quality of life, and you don’t have to simply accept it as a requirement of growing older. This guide covers how to differentiate age-linked tinnitus from other factors and outlines the next steps for those seeking support.
What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus occurs when a person perceives internal sounds that do not originate from their environment. Although ringing and buzzing are the primary descriptions, the sound can also present as roaring, whistling, or clicking. It can be constant or intermittent, affect one or both ears, and range from mildly annoying to highly disruptive.
Research cited by the National Library of Medicine reveals important trends among seniors:
- Tinnitus is experienced by about one in five seniors.
- Daily life is affected for 10% of older people living with tinnitus.
- The data shows that people with hearing loss face a twofold increase in the risk of developing tinnitus.
If it’s loud or doesn’t let up, tinnitus can lead to fatigue, depression, anxiety, and mental and emotional anguish. The good news is that no one has to manage these symptoms without professional help. To begin, let’s explore how to tell if your tinnitus is strictly related to getting older.
When Tinnitus Is Age-Related
One of the most common causes of tinnitus in seniors is age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis.
Common characteristics of age-linked tinnitus include:
- Develops slowly over time.
- Occurs in conjunction with hearing loss.
- Sounds like high-pitched ringing or static.
- Is easier to detect when the surroundings are silent.
When Tinnitus Is Not Just About Aging
It is vital to look beyond age, as many instances of tinnitus are caused by manageable medical or environmental factors, like:
- Noise damage earlier in life, including industrial labor, military duty, or music.
- Ototoxic medications, such as certain specialized pharmaceuticals.
- Blood flow problems, including high blood pressure, that affect the ears.
- Simple earwax blockage, which is a frequent cause of ear noise.
Why Tinnitus Must Not Be Dismissed
However, persistent tinnitus can affect:
- The overall restfulness of your nightly sleep.
- Concentration and memory.
- Overall emotional health.
- Overall quality of life.
Managing Tinnitus: Steps for Seniors
- The use of hearing aids, which can cover the ringing by enhancing environmental sounds.
- Sound masking or masking techniques.
- Modifying prescriptions (where appropriate).
- Lifestyle changes to lower stress and enhance sleep.
Contact our staff of specialists now to make an appointment. Our staff is committed to supporting your hearing health.
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