How To Manage Tinnitus Naturally

Tinnitus, often described as ringing, buzzing, or hissing in the ears, affects many people. While there is no cure, there are natural ways to manage it and reduce the discomfort. This blog will discuss simple and effective natural methods to manage tinnitus and the importance of visiting an audiologist.

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is when you experience sounds like ringing or buzzing. The sounds can vary from soft to loud. Some causes of tinnitus include exposure to loud noises, ear injuries, or even stress.

Natural Remedies for Tinnitus Relief

Sound Therapy

One way to manage tinnitus naturally is through sound therapy. It works by covering up the ringing with other sounds that are more pleasant.

• White noise machines: These machines create soothing sounds like ocean waves, rain, or fan noise. This can help mask the tinnitus sounds.
• Nature sounds: Listening to nature sounds, like birds chirping or a river flowing, can help distract your brain from the ringing in your ears.
• Music therapy: Soft, calming music can shift your focus from the ringing to something more peaceful.

Stress Management

Stress can make tinnitus worse, so finding ways to relax is important.

• Meditation: Practicing mindfulness or meditation can help calm your mind and reduce stress.
• Deep breathing: Slow, deep breaths can relax your body and help reduce the ringing in your ears.
• Exercise: Physical activity can improve your mood by releasing feel-good chemicals, which may help manage tinnitus.

Diet and Lifestyle Changes for Tinnitus Relief

Watch What You Eat and Drink

Certain foods and drinks can make tinnitus worse. Being mindful of your diet can help ease symptoms.

• Limit caffeine and alcohol: Drinks like coffee and alcohol can increase the ringing. Cutting back on them might reduce the noise.
• Lower your salt intake: Eating less salt can help lower blood pressure, which may reduce the intensity of tinnitus.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water is important because dehydration can make tinnitus worse.

Improve Your Sleep

Getting good sleep can help you manage tinnitus. Poor sleep can make the ringing more noticeable.

• Create a routine: Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can help your body get used to a regular sleep schedule.
• Use a white noise machine: As mentioned earlier, white noise can help cover the tinnitus sounds, making it easier to fall asleep.
• Avoid screens before bed: Staying off your phone or computer for at least an hour before bed can help you sleep better.

Other Natural Methods to Consider

Herbal Remedies

Some people find that certain herbs help reduce their tinnitus symptoms.

• Ginkgo biloba: This herb is thought to improve blood flow to the brain and ears, which may help with tinnitus.
• Zinc supplements: A lack of zinc in the body can affect your hearing. Taking zinc supplements (after consulting a doctor) might help with tinnitus.
• Magnesium: Research shows that magnesium can protect against noise-induced hearing loss and may help reduce tinnitus.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an old Chinese practice where thin needles are inserted into certain points of the body. Some people with tinnitus have found relief from acupuncture, although results can vary.

When to See an Audiologist

Even though these natural remedies can help manage tinnitus, it’s important to see an audiologist if your symptoms continue or worsen. Audiologists are hearing experts who can provide personalized treatments and advice.

If you’re in the Longmont, CO area and need help with tinnitus, reach out to Longmont Hearing & Tinnitus Center. Their skilled audiologists are ready to assist you with finding the best solution for your tinnitus.