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Showing posts from February, 2023

More About Cervical Tinnitus

Cervical tinnitus is a type of tinnitus that is believed to be caused by problems in the neck, such as neck injuries, degenerative changes in the neck, or cervical spine conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis.   The cervical spine is responsible for supporting the head and neck and protecting the spinal cord, so problems in this area can result in a variety of symptoms, including tinnitus. Cervical tinnitus may be accompanied by other symptoms such as neck pain, headaches, and decreased range of motion in the neck.  Some people with cervical tinnitus may find relief from chiropractic care or physical therapy, as these treatments can help improve neck mobility, reduce inflammation, and alleviate neck pain. It's important to note that not all cases of tinnitus are caused by cervical problems, and it's crucial to receive an accurate diagnosis to determine the underlying cause of the condition and determine the most appropriate course of treatment.  If you're experi

Can a Chiropractor Help Me With My Tinnitus?

Chiropractors focus on treating musculoskeletal conditions and their effects on the nervous system.  Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is a symptom that can be caused by a variety of underlying health conditions, including hearing loss, ear infections, high blood pressure, or head and neck injuries.  Because tinnitus and ringing in the ears can be caused by neck problems, chiropractic treatment of the neck or spine may help. The onset of what's called cervical tinnitus is often in conjunction with the emergence of cervical pain and neck problems, so seeing a chiropractor for advice isn't a bad idea. While a chiropractor may be able to help alleviate some of the symptoms of tinnitus that are related to neck or spinal issues, you should consult with a doctor or specialist to determine the underlying cause of the condition and determine the most appropriate course of treatment. Remember that chiropractic care is not a cure for tinnitus, and the effectiveness of chiropractic treat

Myofascial Release for Tinnitus

Myofascial release is a type of manual therapy used in massage. It aims to relieve pain and discomfort in the body by using manual pressure to release tightness and tension in the fascia, which are the membranes that cover the muscles, bones, and organs. The therapy is used by physiotherapists and massage therapists, and may include stretching and motion to help release tissue restrictions in your body.  This type of therapy has been suggested as a complementary treatment for tinnitus , a condition characterized by ringing, buzzing, or other sounds in the ear in the absence of any external source. There is limited scientific evidence to support the use of myofascial release for tinnitus, and it is not considered a cure for the condition. However, some people with tinnitus report that myofascial release has helped them manage their symptoms by reducing stress, improving relaxation, and reducing tension in the neck, jaw, and head. It is important to note that myofascial release should no

Reduce Tinnitus With Ear Seeds and Auriculotherapy

Auriculotherapy is a type of alternative therapy that involves stimulation of specific points on the ear in order to treat various conditions.  Some people have claimed that auriculotherapy can be effective in reducing the symptoms of tinnitus . One of the types of auriculotherapy uses ear seeds . According to WebMD, tiny herb seeds (or those made from ceramic or metal) are "placed on the outside of your ear over certain acupuncture points. They’re usually held in place by waterproof tape and stay on your ears for up to a week." "Once they're in place, you massage them two to three times a day. To do this, apply gentle pressure to the seeds and move them in small circles." While ear seeds are safe, there is limited scientific evidence to support the efficacy of auriculotherapy (using seeds or otherwise) for tinnitus. The available studies have produced mixed results and more rigorous, well-designed clinical trials are needed to determine the effectiveness of aur

Tinnitus Relief With Marijuana? Yes and No.

Marijuana, also known as cannabis, has been used for both medicinal and recreational purposes for centuries. Some people with tinnitus have reported that using marijuana can help relieve their symptoms, while others have found that it worsens their condition. The use of marijuana for tinnitus is still being researched and its effectiveness as a treatment is not well established.  Some studies have suggested that marijuana may help reduce tinnitus symptoms by reducing anxiety and stress, which can exacerbate tinnitus. Other studies have found that marijuana can increase tinnitus symptoms in some individuals. It's important to note that the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes is still a controversial and highly regulated issue, and its legality varies from state to state in the United States and from country to country around the world. Additionally, marijuana can have side effects, including impaired cognitive function, increased heart rate, and potential for addiction. If you&

Can Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Help Alleviate Tinnitus Effects?

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that helps people change negative thought patterns and behaviors. In the case of tinnitus, CBT can help individuals learn to manage the emotional and psychological impact of their symptoms. Tinnitus can be a distressing and debilitating condition, and many people with tinnitus struggle with feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression. CBT can help these individuals identify and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs about their tinnitus, and develop strategies for coping with their symptoms in a more positive and proactive way. During CBT for tinnitus, a therapist will work with the individual to identify patterns of thinking and behavior that may be contributing to their distress. They will then help the individual develop new, more positive ways of thinking and behaving that can help reduce anxiety and stress related to tinnitus.  This may include techniques such as relaxation and mindfulness, as well as strategies for managing

Can Lipoflavonoids Help With Your Tinnitus?

Lipoflavonoids are a type of supplement that contain a combination of vitamins and other compounds, including vitamin B complex, bioflavonoids, and choline. Some studies have suggested that lipoflavonoids may help reduce tinnitus symptoms, but the evidence for this is limited. The exact mechanism by which lipoflavonoids may help tinnitus is not well understood. Some researchers believe that the combination of vitamins and other compounds in lipoflavonoids may help improve circulation and reduce inflammation in the inner ear, which can alleviate tinnitus symptoms. It's important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of lipoflavonoids for tinnitus. Some studies have found that lipoflavonoids can help reduce tinnitus symptoms, while others have found no significant improvement.  Additionally, there is limited information available about the safety and potential side effects of taking lipoflavonoids for an extended period of time. If you're cons

How Can Acupuncture Help With Tinnitus?

Acupuncture is thought to help tinnitus by promoting balance and improving circulation in the body.  According to traditional Chinese medicine, tinnitus can be caused by a variety of factors, including a blockage in the flow of energy (Qi) in the body. Acupuncture aims to unblock these energy pathways and restore balance to the body, which can help reduce tinnitus symptoms. In addition, acupuncture is believed to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals. These endorphins can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms. There is some evidence to support the use of acupuncture for tinnitus relief, but more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness. Some studies have shown that acupuncture can help reduce tinnitus symptoms, while others have found no significant improvement. It's important to note that acupuncture is not a cure for tinnitus and that results may vary depending on the individual. If yo

Other Tinnitus Treatments: Acupuncture, Lipoflavonoids, CBT

If your tinnitus doesn't respond to various home remedies or therapies you've been trying, make sure you've considered the ones not always mentioned. Acupuncture : Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body. Some people with tinnitus have reported improvement in symptoms after undergoing acupuncture. Lipoflavonoids : Lipoflavonoids are a type of supplement that contains a combination of vitamins and other compounds. Some studies have suggested that lipoflavonoids may help reduce tinnitus symptoms, but more research is needed to confirm this. Cognitive behavioral therapy : CBT is a type of therapy that helps people change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Some people with tinnitus have found relief from symptoms after undergoing CBT. Reflexology is another type of alternative therapy for tinnitus. It involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears, wh

How to Prepare for Your Audiologist Appointment

If you're hearing noises no one else can hear, you may have tinnitus. It's time to get checked by an audiologist. What's an audiologist? An audiologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the evaluation and treatment of hearing and balance disorders. They have a minimum of a master's degree in audiology and are trained to diagnose and manage hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and vestibular (balance) disorders.  Audiologists use a variety of tests and measures to evaluate an individual's hearing and balance function, and they may also fit and dispense hearing aids, cochlear implants, and other assistive devices. They often work in a clinical setting, such as a hospital, hearing aid dispensing practice, or speech and hearing clinic, and may also provide hearing conservation services in industry and education. Prepare for your appointment for best results Be prepared to answers lots of questions to get the best results from your audiologist appo

Celebrities Who Suffer From Tinnitus

Tinnitus doesn't discriminate.  The common condition affects millions around the world and can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life, making it difficult to sleep, concentrate, and carry out daily activities. Despite the prevalence of tinnitus, many people are not aware of the condition and its effects.  However, there are many famous people who have been open about their experiences with tinnitus, helping to raise awareness and destigmatize the condition.  One well-known figure affected by tinnitus is singer-songwriter, Neil Young. Young's tinnitus was caused by exposure to loud music during his long career in the music industry. Despite the challenges posed by his tinnitus, Young has continued to perform and write music, using his experiences to raise awareness about the condition.  In an interview, Young described tinnitus as "a constant sound that you can't get away from." It even led him to compose softer music.  Phil Collins is another

How William Shatner Deals With His Tinnitus

Best known for playing Captain James Kirk on the original Star Trek TV series, Canadian actor William Shatner  suffers from tinnitus. His condition was diagnosed decades ago and has affected his hearing and quality of life. Tinnitus is a ringing or buzzing in the ears that is not caused by an external sound. This condition can range from mild to severe and can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to loud noise, head injury, and certain medications.  In Shatner's case, his tinnitus sounds like TV static. It was likely caused by exposure to loud noises on the set of Star Trek, where he was surrounded by special effects and other loud noises. Shatner's tinnitus has had a significant impact on his life, affecting not only his hearing but also his ability to sleep and concentrate. In interviews, Shatner has described the constant ringing in his ears as "torture" and has said that it makes it difficult for him to fall asleep at night.  Despite these challen

Depression and Tinnitus are Often Linked

Depression and tinnitus are two commonly occurring conditions that are often related.  Tinnitus is a condition in which a person perceives ringing, whistling, or other sounds in the ear, even in the absence of any external noise.  Depression, on the other hand, is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable. Studies have shown that the two conditions are often linked, with people who suffer from tinnitus being more likely to experience depression. One study found that up to 50% of individuals with tinnitus reported symptoms of depression, compared to only 10% of those without tinnitus.   In addition, people with depression are also more likely to develop tinnitus. This connection may be due to the fact that both conditions affect the same parts of the brain and share similar risk factors, such as stress, trauma, and hearing loss. The relationship between tinnitus and depression is

More Than Noise: Lesser-Known Problems With Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a common condition characterized by the perception of ringing, buzzing, or whistling in the ears. While many people are familiar with the symptoms of tinnitus, there are a number of lesser-known problems that can accompany this condition.  In this blog post, we will discuss five of these issues in detail.  Tinnitus can cause depression and anxiety. Tinnitus can have a profound impact on a person's mental health, leading to feelings of depression and anxiety. This is because the constant ringing in the ears can be distressing and disruptive to daily life. People with tinnitus often struggle to sleep, work, or engage in social activities, which can further exacerbate feelings of depression and anxiety.  Tinnitus can impact a person's ability to hear.   Although tinnitus is not a hearing loss, it can still impact a person's ability to hear. This is because the ringing or other noises in the ear can make it difficult to hear external sounds, especially in noisy en

Can I Live a Normal Life With Tinnitus?

The short answer is yes: People can (and do) live normal and successful lives with tinnitus.   It's not always easy, but many individuals with tinnitus have learned to manage the condition through coping strategies and lifestyle adjustments. Seeking support from professionals, friends, and family can also greatly improve quality of life. With proper management and support, people with tinnitus are able to lead fulfilling and productive lives. Coping strategies, such as mindfulness, sound therapy, and stress reduction, can help minimize the impact of tinnitus on daily life. Consulting a healthcare professional can also provide further guidance on how to best manage tinnitus. Of course, when it interferes with their daily activities, causes sleep problems, and leads to distress, anxiety, or depression, the condition can be unbearable. Similarly, if it's severe and constant, and if no effective coping strategies or treatment options are available or effective, tinnitus can be h

What Is Sound Therapy for Tinnitus?

Sound therapy for tinnitus is a treatment that uses specially designed sounds or white noise to help reduce the perception of tinnitus , a ringing or buzzing in the ears. The idea is to provide external sounds that can distract from the tinnitus and reduce its impact on a person's daily life. Examples of sound therapy for tinnitus include: White noise machines. Tinnitus maskers. Relaxing music or nature sounds. Cognitive behavioral therapy with sound enrichment. Hearing aids with tinnitus sound therapy features. Habituation (or getting used to the noise) is actually another form of therapy. You can train your brain to become accustomed to the noise. As explained in the Harvard Health blog , "you listen to noise similar to your tinnitus sound for long periods.  Eventually your brain ignores the tone, along with the tinnitus sound. It’s similar to how you eventually don’t think about how glasses feel on your nose. The therapy is done with guidance from a specialist and the time

Do Stimulants Like Caffeine, Nicotine, and Alcohol Really Cause Tinnitus?

It's true that caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol can cause tinnitus. All three are stimulants that can increase blood flow and nerve activity in the inner ear, leading to changes in the auditory system.  That coffee you love so much?  The caffeine in it can cause the blood vessels in the ear to narrow, which leads to decreased blood flow and changes in auditory function.  If you're still smoking, there's another reason you'd better quit: Nicotine can have a similar effect as java, constricting blood vessels and reducing blood flow to the inner ear.  And even booze can be toxic to your auditory system, causing damage to the nerve cells in the inner ear, leading to tinnitus. Alcohol in particular can cause dehydration, which can also lead to changes in the auditory system.  Certainly, some people are more sensitive to these substances, but if you're a big coffee drinker and are hearing noises in your ears, caffeine is something to consider. The caffeine relationship Caf

What Are Some Home Remedies for Tinnitus?

While there's no guarantee that they work, you can try any number of the behaviors or home remedies below to reduce the noise in your ears. Remember, tinnitus is very individual, so what might solve the problem for one person may not work for you. You might think that suggestions like "avoid loud noises" are only for people who don't have tinnitus; however, taking care to protect yourself in loud environments can keep your tinnitus from getting worse. So here's the list of best practices and home remedies for tinnitus:   Avoid loud noises. Reduce noise exposure. Use earplugs when you are in loud environments. Reduce stress. Exercise regularly. Stay hydrated. Avoid stimulants like caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. Avoid medications that cause tinnitus. Try sound therapy. Try relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga. Keep your blood pressure under control. Treat underlying conditions that may cause tinnitus, like high blood pressure or jaw problems. Use white