Auditory phantom sounds like buzzing or ringing in the ears is a frequent issue as individuals reach later life. This condition, referred to as tinnitus, often results in significant anxiety and mental strain for older adults. Although the frequency of tinnitus increases with advancing age, it is vital to recognize that not every instance is a direct result of the aging process.
The perception of tinnitus often lowers a person’s standard of living, but it is a misconception to believe there are no options for management. In this guide, we will examine the differences between age-related and non-age-related triggers, along with actionable steps for managing tinnitus.
Understanding Tinnitus
In basic language, tinnitus is the personal experience of sound that no one else can hear. Although ringing and buzzing are the most frequent descriptions, the sound can also present as hissing, roaring, or static. Whether it is a continuous noise or one that comes and goes, tinnitus can range from a slight irritation to a severe disruption.
According to the National Library of Medicine, in a general elderly population:
- One out of every five seniors is affected by tinnitus symptoms.
- 1 in 10 of those affected find that tinnitus impacts their day-to-day activities.
- Participants with hearing loss were twice as likely to have tinnitus.
If it’s loud or doesn’t let up, tinnitus can lead to fatigue, depression, anxiety, and mental and emotional anguish. Professional support and management strategies are available to help mitigate these effects. To begin, let’s explore how to tell if your tinnitus is strictly related to getting older.
Identifying Tinnitus Triggered by Aging
One of the most common causes of tinnitus in older adults is age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis.
When aging is the primary cause, the tinnitus typically:
- Emerges gradually as the auditory system changes.
- Is experienced together with age-related hearing loss.
- Is often described as sharp ringing or static-like noise.
- Is easier to detect when the surroundings are silent.
When Tinnitus Is Not Just About Aging
Aging isn’t always the sole factor, as many seniors experience tinnitus due to environmental influences, such as:
- Past contact with damaging decibel levels from military service or factory environments.
- Medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, aspirin, or specific antibiotics.
- Vascular conditions, such as high blood pressure.
- Simple earwax blockage, which is a frequent cause of ringing.
The Effect of Ongoing Tinnitus
Yet, it is essential to realize that chronic tinnitus takes a toll on:
- The ability to fall and stay asleep all through the night.
- Your mental clarity and the ability to recall important information.
- Mood and anxiety levels.
- The general enjoyment you find in daily life.
What You Can Do
- Utilizing hearing aids to provide the brain with more auditory input and reduce tinnitus focus.
- Employing sound machines or ambient sound to help cover the internal noises.
- Medication adjustments (where appropriate).
- Lifestyle changes to reduce stress and improve sleep.
Call our team today to set up a consultation and begin your journey toward relief. We’re ready to help.
