Does Alcohol Impact Your Tinnitus?

Yes, drinking can cause your tinnitus to sound different — it might be louder or quieter.

According to Dr. Julie Prutsman at Sound Relief Hearing Center, "drinking alcohol of any kind, whether it’s wine, beer, or liquor, can worsen tinnitus.

This is because "drinking alcohol causes your blood vessels to relax and expand," she explains. "When this occurs, blood flow increases throughout the body, including your ears, which can make your tinnitus worse. While alcohol-induced tinnitus is generally short-lived, excessive drinking over a long period of time can result in a permanent form of this hearing condition."

Audiologist Ben Thompson puts it this way: "Alcohol is known to raise blood pressure which may temporarily increase perception of tinnitus. While this is usually temporary with light to moderate alcohol consumption, increased blood pressure can lead to changes to circulation in the inner ear."

According to American Addiction Centers, "there is debate about whether or not alcohol directly causes tinnitus, but it almost certainly can exacerbate the problem. Many of those who abuse alcohol will need to deal with the symptoms of this condition. Some individuals attempt to self-medicate with alcohol, to deal with tinnitus, and this can lead to hazardous drinking."

People who are going through alcohol withdrawal may also experience tinnitus, so self-medicating with alcohol — while understandable when the noise in your head is unbearable — is certainly not encouraged.

There are even types of alcohol that are known to trigger or worsen tinnitus symptoms. These include "red wine, grain-based spirits such as rum and beer, cider, sherry and brandy." This is because they "all contain high to very high levels of salicylates," according to South Valley Ear, Nose & Throat, which are naturally occurring chemicals present in many fruits and vegetables.

Like everything with tinnitus, the impact alcohol has on it varies with the individual. Some people find moderate drinking helps them cope with their tinnitus, while others find that just one drink can increase the noise.

Theories abound as to why drinking helps or doesn't.

For those who can have a glass or two without problem, it's possible that they relax to such an extent they can get their mind off the noise.

For those who notice their tinnitus worsens, it may be because drinking causes your blood vessels to constrict, which increases your blood pressure, making the sounds in your head more noticeable. It should be noted that prolonged drinking over time causes sustained high blood pressure.

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...

10-Minute Daily Yoga Routine: Ease Tinnitus Symptoms and Promote Relaxation

Living with tinnitus can be incredibly challenging, but incorporating a short, targeted yoga routine into your daily life can make a significant difference. This 10-minute practice is designed to help you find moments of peace, reduce stress, and potentially alleviate some of your tinnitus symptoms. Consistency is key – even on your toughest days, try to carve out these few minutes for yourself. Setting the Stage for Success Before we dive into the routine, let's create an environment that supports your practice: • Choose a quiet space: While silence might amplify tinnitus for some, a quiet room allows you to focus on your breath and movements without external distractions. • Dim the lights: Soft lighting can help calm your nervous system and reduce visual stimuli that might compete with your tinnitus. • Use a non-slip mat: Safety first – ensure you have a stable surface for your practice. • Wear comfortable clothing: Loose, breathable fabrics allow for easier movement and help yo...

Can Allergies Cause Tinnitus?

The short answer is: Yes, allergies can cause tinnitus. Hearing loss, too. Allergy-related tinnitus is typically due to the congestion that allergies cause. Anything from allergic rhinitis (hay fever) to sinus infections increases the risk of developing tinnitus. Basically anything that affects the nasal and sinus passages can lead to tinnitus. That's because when allergies affect the nasal passages and sinuses, they can cause inflammation and swelling, leading to congestion and pressure changes in the ear. This pressure change can lead to tinnitus. Allergy meds can be a problem too Tinnitus can also be a side effect of certain medications used to treat allergies, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin. These medications can potentially cause tinnitus as a side effect, especially when taken in high doses. Other causes of tinnitus In addition to allergies, there are several other causes of tinnitus. In some cases, tinnitus can be a symptom of an u...

Tinnitus Help - Stop the Ringing in Your Ears

Search This Blog