We Know COVID Causes Tinnitus; What About the COVID Vaccines and Boosters?

Healthcare worker giving a shot to a patient; COVID vaccinations cause tinnitus concept

"Mounting evidence—from scientific studies and case reports—suggests that there might be a connection between COVID vaccines and rare cases of severe tinnitus," reports Tara Haelle at National Geographic.

However, the CDC disputes the connection and says it will not pursue a study. The reason is that tinnitus is linked to about 200 disorders: it can be caused by everything from the common cold and age-related hearing loss to earwax blockage and taking certain medications.

Also, a study that compared how many people were diagnosed with new-onset tinnitus 21 days after the COVID vaccine versus other common vaccinations found that the other common vaccinations were higher. Just because it's low risk doesn't help the approximately 16,000 Americans who got some form of tinnitus after getting their COVID shots.

One theory is that the vaccines and boosters may be interacting with pre-existing risk factors for tinnitus. This seems to indicate, then, that the first vaccine would be the riskiest -- and we're way past that point in time. It's not written in stone, though: one patient reports that their tinnitus started a few weeks after their second shot in the initial round of vaccinations. Another reports the same, and says their tinnitus worsened with the third shot.

Erika Edwards at NBC News reports that "Shaowen Bao, an associate professor in the physiology department of the College of Medicine at the University of Arizona, Tucson, believes that ongoing inflammation, especially in the brain or spinal cord, may be to blame."

All of the reports of links between COVID vaccinations and tinnitus are anecdotal, but some health professionals are taking them seriously.

“Tinnitus is a prominent symptom in many people with long COVID and in those with vaccine-associated conditions,” says cardiologist Harlan Krumholz, who is director of Yale University’s Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, as reported by Nada Hassanein at USA TODAY. He says he and his team "are seeking to bring together many people with this symptom and hope we can learn together what might be the cause – on the path toward evidence-based strategies to help these people."

Try Eargasm Earplus

Comments

3 Highly Effective Stress Management Methods Every Tinnitus Sufferer Can Master

The constant noise of tinnitus can make it difficult to concentrate, sleep, or relax, which in turn, amplifies stress and anxiety. Stress management, then, plays a key role in mitigating the impact of tinnitus. Here are three highly effective methods that every tinnitus sufferer can master to manage stress and improve overall well-being. Mindfulness Meditation Mindfulness meditation is a simple yet powerful tool for reducing stress and anxiety, especially for those with tinnitus. The goal is to train your mind to stay in the present moment rather than fixating on the internal noise or the stress it causes. Research has shown that regular mindfulness practice can lower stress levels, increase focus, and reduce the perceived intensity of tinnitus sounds. How to Get Started Begin by setting aside 10-15 minutes each day to sit in a quiet space. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, paying attention to the sensation of air entering and leaving your body. If your mind dr...

17 Hidden Struggles Of Tinnitus-Related Insomnia No One Warns You About

Living with tinnitus can be challenging enough during the day, but when night falls, a whole new set of obstacles emerges. Tinnitus-related insomnia is a common yet often underestimated problem that affects countless individuals. While many are aware that tinnitus can interfere with sleep, few truly understand the depth and complexity of this issue. In this article, we'll explore 17 hidden struggles that people with tinnitus-related insomnia face – struggles that often go unmentioned but significantly impact daily life. 1. The Cruel Irony of Exhaustion and Alertness One of the most frustrating aspects of tinnitus-related insomnia is the paradoxical state of being utterly exhausted yet unable to fall asleep. As the body craves rest, the mind remains on high alert, attuned to the persistent ringing or buzzing. This cruel irony can lead to feelings of helplessness and frustration, creating a cycle that's difficult to break. 2. The Pre-Bed Anxiety Spiral For many tinnitus suffer...

These Simple Words Can Change How You Think About Tinnitus Management

Living with tinnitus can be challenging, but two powerful concepts can transform your approach to managing this condition: acceptance and adaptation. By embracing these ideas, you can develop a more positive mindset and effective strategies for coping with tinnitus. Let's explore how these simple words can make a significant difference in your daily life. The Power of Acceptance Accepting tinnitus doesn't mean giving up or resigning yourself to a life of discomfort. Instead, it's about acknowledging your current situation and choosing to move forward productively. Here's how acceptance can change your perspective: Reduces Stress and Anxiety - Acceptance helps decrease the emotional toll of constantly fighting against tinnitus. - By letting go of the struggle, you free up mental energy for more positive pursuits. Shifts Focus - Accepting tinnitus allows you to redirect your attention to other aspects of your life. - You can start appreciating the sounds you can still e...

Tinnitus Help - Stop the Ringing in Your Ears

Search This Blog