Many seniors notice ongoing humming, whistling, or ringing sounds that lack an outside origin. Known clinically as tinnitus, these subjective sounds can be a source of frustration and anxiety for many aging adults. Although the frequency of tinnitus increases among seniors, it is vital to understand that not every case is a direct result of the aging process.
Tinnitus can interrupt and compromise your quality of life, and you don’t have to simply accept it as a part of growing older. This guide covers how to distinguish age-linked tinnitus from other factors and outlines the necessary steps for those seeking support.
Defining Tinnitus: The Basics
Tinnitus manifests when a person hears internal sounds that are not produced externally. Commonly, patients report ringing or buzzing, but some people experience roaring, clicking, or hissing sounds. The experience can be localized in one or both ears, occurring either constantly or occasionally throughout the day.
Research cited by the National Library of Medicine reveals important trends among seniors:
- About 20 percent of older individuals are affected by tinnitus symptoms.
- Ten percent of those affected find that tinnitus impacts their day-to-day activities.
- The data indicates that individuals with hearing loss face an increased likelihood of developing tinnitus.
Persistent or high-volume tinnitus often contributes to significant emotional distress, including anxiety, exhaustion, and depression. The good news is that no one has to manage these symptoms without professional help. To begin, let’s explore how to tell if your tinnitus is strictly related to getting older.
When Tinnitus Is Age-Related
One of the primary drivers of tinnitus in seniors is age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis.
When aging is the primary cause, the tinnitus typically:
- Develops slowly over time.
- Is experienced concurrently with age-related hearing impairment.
- Sounds like sharp whistling or static.
- Is easier to detect when the surroundings are silent.
When Tinnitus Is Not Just About Aging
While age-related changes are a factor, many cases of tinnitus in older adults are linked to other factors, including:
- Past exposure with intense sound from military service or factory environments.
- Medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, aspirin, or specific antibiotics.
- Circulatory health issues, such as hypertension or other vascular disorders.
- An excess of earwax, a problem occurring regularly with seniors.
Why Tinnitus Must Not Be Dismissed
Yet, it is important to realize that long-term tinnitus takes a toll on:
- The overall restfulness of your nightly sleep.
- Concentration and memory.
- Your emotional stability and your general level of anxiety.
- The general enjoyment you find in daily life.
What You Can Do
- Hearing aids, which frequently lessen tinnitus by enhancing sound input.
- Employing sound machines or ambient sound to help mask the internal sounds.
- Reviewing and adjusting current pharmaceuticals if they are found to be ototoxic.
- Lifestyle adjustments to lower stress and enhance sleep.
Phone our team now to set up a consultation and begin your path toward relief. We are ready to provide the assistance you need.