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Showing posts from March, 2023

Is Obesity Predictive of Tinnitus?

Tinnitus, a condition characterized by the perception of sound when there is no external noise present, affects millions of people worldwide.  While the exact causes of tinnitus are not yet fully understood, recent research has explored the relationship between obesity and the prevalence of tinnitus.  In this article, we'll examine the evidence and explore the possible links between obesity and tinnitus. The Evidence Several studies have suggested that there may be a link between obesity and tinnitus.  One study, published in The Laryngoscope, found that individuals with a higher body mass index (BMI) were more likely to report experiencing tinnitus. Another study, published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, found that obesity was associated with a higher risk of developing tinnitus in women. While these studies point to a possible connection between obesity and tinnitus, it's important to note that the relationship between these two conditions is complex and mult

Tinnitus, Cognition, and Depression: Understanding the Link

Tinnitus, a condition characterized by the perception of sound when there is no external noise present, is often associated with a variety of comorbidities, including cognitive dysfunction and depression.  While the exact nature of the relationship between tinnitus, cognition, and depression is not yet fully understood, recent research has shed light on some of the possible connections.  In this article, we'll explore these links and suggest ways to alleviate the symptoms of tinnitus. Cognition and Tinnitus Studies have found that tinnitus is associated with cognitive dysfunction, including problems with attention, memory, and executive function. Although the precise mechanisms underlying this link are not completely understood, researchers believe that the brain changes associated with tinnitus may also contribute to cognitive deficits. Some researchers have suggested that tinnitus may be a form of "phantom perception," similar to phantom limb pain. In both cases, the br

Tinnitus and Myocardial Infarction

If you suffer from tinnitus, you're probably well aware of the constant ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in your ears. While tinnitus is not a life-threatening condition, recent studies suggest that there may be a link between tinnitus and myocardial infarction (MI), also known as a heart attack. What is Myocardial Infarction? Myocardial infarction is a serious medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the heart is blocked, usually due to a blood clot. This results in damage to the heart muscle, and if left untreated, can lead to heart failure or even death. The Link between Tinnitus and Myocardial Infarction Studies have long shown a possible link between tinnitus and myocardial infarction. A 2011 study published in the American Journal of the Medical Sciences found that people with a certain thickness of carotid arteries had significant associations with tinnitus. Another study found that people with severe tinnitus were more likely to have a heart atta

Is Tinnitus a Symptom or a Chronic Illness?

Tinnitus is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by a persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears. While some people may experience mild tinnitus that goes away on its own, others may suffer from a more severe and chronic form of the condition. So, is tinnitus a symptom or a chronic illness? The answer to this question is not straightforward. Tinnitus can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition or a chronic illness in its own right. Tinnitus as a symptom Tinnitus can be a symptom of a wide range of medical conditions. For example, it can be a side effect of certain medications, such as aspirin and some antibiotics. It can also be caused by exposure to loud noise, which can damage the hair cells in the inner ear that are responsible for transmitting sound to the brain. Tinnitus can also be a symptom of a more serious medical condition, such as Meniere's disease, which is a disorder of the inner ear that causes vertigo, hear

Is There a Connection Between Unexplained Fever and Tinnitus?

There is no direct connection between unexplained fever and tinnitus.  However, in some cases, an underlying medical condition that causes fever can also lead to tinnitus as a symptom. For example, infections such as meningitis or Lyme disease can cause fever and tinnitus. In these cases, treating the underlying condition may also help reduce the symptoms of tinnitus. But the tinnitus itself is not a symptom of fever. Tinnitus is typically caused by damage to the inner ear, exposure to loud noise, or other medical conditions such as hearing loss. There are other examples of underlying symptoms that can cause fever and tinnitus. They include: Meniere's disease . Meniere's disease is an inner ear disorder that can cause vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus. In some cases, it may also cause fever. Acoustic neuroma . Acoustic neuroma is a benign tumor that grows on the nerve responsible for hearing and balance. It can cause tinnitus and in some cases, fever. Autoimmune disorders . C

What Is Excessive or Extreme Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a common condition where individuals experience a persistent ringing, buzzing, or humming sound in their ears. However, for some people, the symptoms can be more severe and can interfere with their daily lives.  Excessive tinnitus (or extreme tinnitus) are terms used to describe tinnitus that is more severe and persistent than normal tinnitus. It can be a frustrating and distressing condition, but there are ways to manage and reduce its symptoms. Who Gets Excessive Tinnitus? Excessive tinnitus can affect people of all ages, but it's more common in older adults. According to research, up to 20% of people over the age of 60 experience excessive tinnitus. However, it can also affect younger individuals who have been exposed to loud noise or have a history of ear infections or hearing loss. What Causes Excessive Tinnitus? Excessive tinnitus, like regular tinnitus, can be caused by a variety of factors, including: Exposure to loud noise.  Exposure to loud noise, such as con

How Self-Awareness Can Help Reduce Tinnitus Symptoms

Tinnitus can be a frustrating and challenging condition to live with. The perception of persistent ringing or buzzing sounds in the ears can make it difficult to focus on daily activities or get a good night's sleep. While there is no cure for tinnitus, many people find relief through various treatments, including self-awareness techniques. Self-awareness is the ability to recognize and understand your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It's an essential skill that can help you manage stress, improve your relationships, and cope with challenging situations. Self-awareness can also be an effective tool for managing tinnitus. One way self-awareness can help with tinnitus is by reducing the emotional response to the sound. When you experience tinnitus, it's common to feel anxious, frustrated, or even angry. These emotions can make the perception of sound worse, leading to a vicious cycle of distress and discomfort. However, by practicing self-awareness, you can learn to recogn

The Connection Between Tinnitus and Respiratory Disease

Tinnitus is a challenging condition that affects people in different ways. It's characterized by the perception of ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears. While it's not a disease in itself, tinnitus can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, including respiratory diseases. Respiratory diseases, also known as pulmonary diseases, affect the lungs and other parts of the respiratory system, making it difficult to breathe. Some common respiratory diseases include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, and pneumonia. These conditions can cause inflammation, blockages, and other issues that affect how air moves in and out of the lungs. Research has shown that respiratory diseases can be associated with tinnitus. For instance, a study published in the International Journal of Audiology found that people with COPD had a higher prevalence of tinnitus than those without the disease. The study also revealed that the severity of tinnitus was li

Does Your Tinnitus Have a Somatic Element?

A somatic element in tinnitus refers to the perception of tinnitus that is influenced by physical or sensory stimuli in the body. This can include changes in head or neck position, jaw movements, or muscle tension. Somatic tinnitus is thought to be related to the way that the sensory system in the head and neck is connected to the auditory system in the brain. When there is tension or dysfunction in the muscles or joints of the head and neck, it can affect the way that the auditory system processes sound, leading to the perception of tinnitus. For example, some people with somatic tinnitus may notice that the sound of their tinnitus changes when they move their head in a certain way or when they clench their jaw. Others may notice that their tinnitus is more noticeable or bothersome when they are experiencing stress or tension in the muscles of the head and neck. Treatment for somatic tinnitus may involve a combination of strategies such as physical therapy, relaxation techniques, and

What is Reactive Tinnitus?

Reactive tinnitus is a type of tinnitus that is characterized by a change in the perceived loudness or pitch of the tinnitus in response to external stimuli. This can include changes in posture, movement, or exposure to certain sounds. Sometimes what you eat or drink can cause a serious spike in the noise you hear. In reactive tinnitus, the loudness or pitch of the tinnitus can be affected by factors such as jaw movement, head position, or exposure to loud noises. For example, some people with reactive tinnitus may notice that the sound of their tinnitus increases when they clench their jaw or move their head in a certain way. Others may notice that their tinnitus is louder or more noticeable after exposure to loud noises such as music or machinery. Reactive tinnitus is thought to be related to changes in the activity of the auditory system and the way that the brain processes sound. While the exact cause of reactive tinnitus is not fully understood, it is thought to be related to a co

Do Migraines Cause Tinnitus?

Migraines and tinnitus are both common conditions that affect many people. While they can sometimes occur together, there is not a direct cause-and-effect relationship between migraines and tinnitus. However, some people with migraines may experience tinnitus during or after a migraine attack . This is because migraines can cause changes in blood flow to the brain and inner ear, which can lead to tinnitus. Additionally, some medications that are used to treat migraines can also cause tinnitus as a side effect. These medications include: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen. Triptans, which are a class of drugs that are commonly used to treat migraines. Examples include sumatriptan, rizatriptan, and zolmitriptan. Ergotamines, which are another class of drugs used to treat migraines. Examples include ergotamine tartrate and dihydroergotamine. Anti-seizure medications such as valproic acid and topiramate, which are sometimes used to preven

Other Massage Therapies for Tinnitus Relief

There are several massage and pressure therapies that may help with tinnitus , other than or in addition to those previously covered. These include: Acupuncture : This traditional Chinese therapy involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to balance the flow of energy, or Qi. Acupuncture has been shown to help reduce tinnitus symptoms in some people by reducing stress and improving circulation. Cranial Sacral Therapy : This gentle massage technique focuses on the head, neck, and spine to relieve pain and tension, and improve the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. Cranial sacral therapy may help reduce tinnitus symptoms by reducing tension in the neck and head. Trager Therapy : This type of massage therapy aims to release tension in the body and promote relaxation by using gentle rocking movements and sometimes stretches. Trager therapy may help reduce tinnitus symptoms by reducing stress and tension in the body. Manual Lymphatic Drainage : This gentle massage techniqu

Why is Tinnitus Largely Ignored and Stigmatized?

Tinnitus is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world, yet it is often stigmatized and ignored.  This stigma can make it difficult for individuals who are living with tinnitus to seek treatment and support, and can also lead to feelings of isolation and hopelessness.  One reason why tinnitus is stigmatized is because it is often misunderstood. Tinnitus is a subjective condition that can only be heard by the person who is experiencing it, making it difficult for others to understand the severity of the condition. This lack of understanding can lead to dismissiveness and skepticism, with some people assuming that tinnitus is not a serious condition or is simply all in the person's head. Another reason why tinnitus is stigmatized is because there is a lack of awareness and education about the condition.  Many people are not familiar with tinnitus, and may not know how to support someone who is experiencing this condition. This lack of awareness can also lead

Does Tinnitus Only Affect Older People? (Spoiler: No)

Tinnitus affects between 15%-20% of the population, and is certainly more common in older adults. However, it can  affect people of all ages, and it's not even always related to their exposure to loud noises.  There are many other factors that can contribute to tinnitus, including stress, anxiety, depression, and even certain medications. This means that anyone can develop tinnitus. The diversity of those who are affected by tinnitus proves that it is not just a condition for the old.  For example, tinnitus is common among musicians and other young people who regularly expose themselves to loud noises. In some cases, tinnitus may even develop in children and young adults, which can have a significant impact on their daily lives and ability to concentrate. Despite the diversity of those who are affected by tinnitus, it is still often perceived as a condition that only affects older individuals. This stereotype can be damaging, as it can lead to a lack of support and resources for th

What Kind of Tinnitus Do You Have?

You know you have tinnitus, but do you know what kind it is? In addition to cervical tinnitus, there are several different types of tinnitus, each with its own underlying cause . They include: Objective tinnitus : This type of tinnitus is audible to both the person with tinnitus and to others. It is often caused by a problem in the inner ear or blood vessels and can sometimes be heard as a pulsing or rhythmic noise. Subjective tinnitus : This is the most common type of tinnitus and is only audible to the person with the condition. It is usually caused by damage to the inner ear or hearing nerve. Somatic tinnitus : This type of tinnitus is caused by problems in the musculoskeletal system, including the jaw, neck, or head, and is often related to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders or cervical tinnitus. Neurological tinnitus : This type of tinnitus is caused by problems in the central nervous system, including the brain and auditory pathways. It may be a symptom of conditions like mu