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What Is Excessive or Extreme Tinnitus?


Bird perched on branch; excessive tinnitus or extreme tinnitus concept

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 concerts or working in a noisy environment, can damage the hair cells in the inner ear, leading to excessive tinnitus.
  • Ear infections. Infections in the ear can cause inflammation and damage to the ear canal, which can lead to tinnitus.
  • Hearing loss. As people age, their ability to hear may decline, which can cause tinnitus.
  • Medications. Certain medications, such as antibiotics, antidepressants, and aspirin, can cause tinnitus as a side effect.
  • Medical conditions. Conditions such as high blood pressure, Meniere's disease, and tumors can also lead to excessive tinnitus.
Can Excessive Tinnitus be Cured or Symptoms Reduced?

Unfortunately, there is currently no known cure for any kind of tinnitus, including excessive or extreme tinnitus. However, there are various ways to manage and reduce symptoms, such as:

  • Sound therapy. Sound therapy involves using external sounds to mask or distract from the tinnitus. This can be done through listening to music, using white noise machines, or using ear-level sound generators.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals manage their emotional and behavioral responses to tinnitus. This therapy can help reduce the anxiety and stress associated with excessive tinnitus.
  • Medications. Certain medications, such as antidepressants and anticonvulsants, can help reduce the symptoms of tinnitus. However, these medications may have side effects, and it's important to consult with a doctor before taking them.
  • Lifestyle changes. Lifestyle changes such as reducing caffeine intake, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption can also help reduce the symptoms of excessive tinnitus.
  • Hearing aids. For individuals with hearing loss, hearing aids can help amplify external sounds, making the tinnitus less noticeable.
  • Acupuncture. Acupuncture is an alternative therapy that involves inserting needles into specific points on the body to help reduce symptoms. While the research on acupuncture for tinnitus is limited, some studies have shown it can be effective in reducing symptoms.
Tinnitus is a challenging condition to live with, and excessive tinnitus or extreme tinnitus is even more difficult. However, there are ways to manage and reduce many of the symptoms. It's important to consult with a doctor to determine the underlying cause of the tinnitus and to explore different treatment options. With the right approach, you can learn to cope with your tinnitus and improve your quality of life.



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