Minor Injuries: Seeking Treatment in a Timely Manner

Characterized by a constant ringing in the ears, tinnitus can affect your hearing and overall quality of life. Unfortunately, most people do not understand the disorder, how it is caused, or even if it is treatable until they or someone they love develop it. This guide will help you learn the truth behind a few common myths about tinnitus.

Tinnitus Is Rare

One of the most common myths people believe is that tinnitus is rare. In reality, the disorder is quite common.

Recent reports have shown an estimated 50 million Americans have tinnitus. Therefore, you or someone you know may be affected by this disorder.

Tinnitus Is Not a Big Concern

Another misconception you may have is that tinnitus is not something to be overly concerned with. Although you may wish it was not a big deal, tinnitus should be taken seriously.

Yes, the disorder does cause a continuous ringing and buzzing in the ear, which can affect your ability to hear in a clear, concise way. However, your hearing is not the only thing that tinnitus affects.

Without the ability to hear properly, you may experience emotional distress throughout your daily life. Many patients also develop anxiety or depression because of their tinnitus.

Insomnia and dizziness are also common side effects of tinnitus.

It is also important to remember that tinnitus is not an actual disease – it is a symptom of another issue, so having your hearing and overall health evaluated by medical professionals is imperative.

Tinnitus Is Not Treatable

If you have developed tinnitus, you may worry that the ringing and buzzing will affect your hearing and lifestyle forever. Fortunately, that is not actually true, since treatments are available. Of course, the best treatment for your specific case will depend on what is causing your tinnitus.

Obviously, if your tinnitus stems from an underlying issue, such as TMJ, a tumor/cyst, or an ear infection, treatment will involve treating the conditions to cure the tinnitus.

In some instances, tinnitus just occurs along with some hearing loss. Hearing aids are excellent options for improving your hearing ability while reducing the ringing and buzzing associated with tinnitus.

Hearing therapy may also be used if you have tinnitus. This therapy teaches you how to filter out the sounds caused by the tinnitus, ensuring you can still hear what is necessary without the uncomfortable effects of tinnitus.

Help is available if you or someone you love is suffering from tinnitus. For more information, contact a hearing health center such as Wakefield Hearing Center.