Tinnitus is a very common set of symptoms that affects more than 50 million Americans. You may suffer from tinnitus if you constantly hear noises such as ringing, chirping, buzzing or whistling. While one of the main causes of hearing these "phantom sounds" is the inevitable degeneration of hearing with age, there are steps you can take to avoid the symptoms in your younger years.
Causes
The causes of tinnitus can differ. Some examples include ear infections or a buildup of ear wax. Once these infections or blockages are addressed, the incessant "phantom sounds" may disappear. Being around a great deal of constant noise can also lead to these frustrating symptoms. High-volume noise can cause significant damage to the cochlea or eardrum, resulting in a seemingly unending ringing sensation.
As mentioned earlier, another cause of tinnitus is the natural aging process. Certain kinds of medications such as aspirin, antibiotics, and sedatives can contribute to tinnitus as well. In fact, it is listed as a potential side effect on many drug labels. You can experience tinnitus if you have medical conditions like high blood pressure, allergies, anemia, or cardiovascular disease.
Prevention
If you work in the manufacturing or construction industries, which often involve the use of loud heavy machinery, take steps to protect your ears. 90% of people who suffer from tinnitus experience some kind of hearing loss due to being in noisy settings. Consider wearing ear plugs or over-the-ear protection. Your supervisor may provide these forms of hearing protection, but if not, be sure to purchase some of your own. Other professionals who should take precautions include musicians, carpenters, landscapers, pilots, and road-repair personnel.
The conditions that cause tinnitus aren't only found on job sites; recreational activities can lead to ringing and buzzing sensations. Listening to music at very high volumes, whether with earphones or speakers, should also be avoided.
