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  1. MindOverMatter

    You are young,so a lot can still happen for you. My number one rule for everyone unfortunate...

    You are young,so a lot can still happen for you. My number one rule for everyone unfortunate enough to get t/h is to stay away from "horror stories". It will feed the brain with information that reinforces that fight or flight cycle. Not a good starting point at all. If you haven't seeked out...
  2. MindOverMatter

    Socializing with Tonic Tensor Tympani Syndrome (TTTS) — Any Activity Suggestions?

    I usually write, or should have written, “possibly” in regard to bioflavonoids. They have helped me with ear fullness when I have had issues with that. I’m not sure if there is any medical connection at all, but it seems worth a try since there are usually no side effects. I do know that...
  3. MindOverMatter

    Worsening Tinnitus After Microsuction: Electrical Buzzing, Sound Sensitivity, and the Search for Relief

    I know exactly where you are coming from. I have moderate hearing loss myself. Having tinnitus completely silenced is very unlikely, although that is a natural and understandable thought when thinking about the process of habituation. For me, habituation is almost as good as silence. It means...
  4. MindOverMatter

    Tinnitus Spike, Distortions, Hyperacusis, Ear Fullness: Should I Take Prednisone?

    Your story sounds somewhat familiar to mine in terms of timeline and symptoms. I had it stable for 15 years, and like you, I experienced spikes, but they always returned to baseline. Even if it remains that way for 10, 15, or even 20 years, there are no guarantees it will stay the same. Once...
  5. MindOverMatter

    I get you @Sodlin I get you, as I know how it is, but there is a difference between...

    I get you @Sodlin I get you, as I know how it is, but there is a difference between hypervigilance and being "smart" around soundscapes that might upset you. Being hypervigilant around sound usually make our reaction to the sound worse.
  6. MindOverMatter

    Worsening Tinnitus After Microsuction: Electrical Buzzing, Sound Sensitivity, and the Search for Relief

    I’ve read your posts, and I understand that you’re frustrated. I can tell you with confidence that no ENT is likely to pinpoint the exact cause of your tinnitus. The reality is that the majority of cases are noise-induced, although there are also many other possible causes or contributing...
  7. MindOverMatter

    Thats actually a good way of reframing it @ErikaS Don't give it to much space. One day at a...

    Thats actually a good way of reframing it @ErikaS Don't give it to much space. One day at a time. You will get there 🙏
  8. MindOverMatter

    Stress management, shifting focus, walks in nature if you can + magnesium glycinate and possibly...

    Stress management, shifting focus, walks in nature if you can + magnesium glycinate and possibly bioflavonoids. It will pass, stay positive about that - but it might stick around for many months.
  9. MindOverMatter

    Yes, it all sounds very familiar @ErikaS When we are in the midst of the storm, it all comes...

    Yes, it all sounds very familiar @ErikaS When we are in the midst of the storm, it all comes back with full force. Its usually never back to square one or worse, but a setback. Worrying is the worst thing we can do, because it is out of our control. The more worry the longer the TTTS will stay...
  10. MindOverMatter

    Socializing with Tonic Tensor Tympani Syndrome (TTTS) — Any Activity Suggestions?

    In most cases, there is no need to do anything about this unless you are experiencing severe physical pain. Resting your ears from loud sounds and allowing time to pass is usually enough. What is crucial for recovery is to train the brain to tune it out and stop treating it as a threat. Stop...
  11. MindOverMatter

    Socializing with Tonic Tensor Tympani Syndrome (TTTS) — Any Activity Suggestions?

    Natural muscle relaxants like Magnesium Glycinate and bioflavonoids (especially if you have aural fullness) are worth trying.
  12. MindOverMatter

    I've noticed from your comments that you seem very alert. I don't blame you. Ive been there. But...

    I've noticed from your comments that you seem very alert. I don't blame you. Ive been there. But with the "guard up" all the time, it makes it quite difficult to navigate through this. An auditory system thats is on the alert constantly, will also tune in pretty much any sound and consider it a...
  13. MindOverMatter

    Yes. However, I believe this is more of a "psychological spike" than an actual spike - given...

    Yes. However, I believe this is more of a "psychological spike" than an actual spike - given your 35db plugs in. Elevated stress levels, and you'll spike from that. And it will be short-lived.
  14. MindOverMatter

    Socializing with Tonic Tensor Tympani Syndrome (TTTS) — Any Activity Suggestions?

    TTTS can present in many forms and with a variety of symptoms. Some people experience all of them, while others only have a few. What you are describing can, for some individuals, be one of the symptoms of TTTS. I have not personally experienced extreme ear pain due to TTTS. It is also commonly...
  15. MindOverMatter

    Socializing with Tonic Tensor Tympani Syndrome (TTTS) — Any Activity Suggestions?

    Tonic Tensor Tympani Syndrome, by itself, is not dangerous to my knowledge. Most of all, it is annoying and disturbing. I have had many bouts with it throughout the years, the last one lasting a few months if I recall correctly. TTTS tends to fade when you stop focusing on it. In other words...
  16. MindOverMatter

    Do Most People Recover from Tinnitus While We Are Left Behind?

    This is not correct. There are several studies, including a large one from 2021 that was published in The Lancet in 2022, showing that tinnitus is reported by about 15 percent of the world’s population. Whether people remain aware of it over time is another matter. The number of severe cases is...
  17. MindOverMatter

    Do Most People Recover from Tinnitus While We Are Left Behind?

    People with bothersome tinnitus are a minority, yes, but only when compared to how many people actually have some level of tinnitus worldwide. What do you include in the word “recover”? Most people who develop chronic tinnitus are stuck with it for life. However, it often becomes non-bothersome...
  18. MindOverMatter

    You need to concentrate on you getting better @Tryn2BHopeful You will be losing out, and you...

    You need to concentrate on you getting better @Tryn2BHopeful You will be losing out, and you might have to skip graduation day. If it scares you off and stressing you out, you shouldn't attend. It is hard, but its your life. Ive missed out on a lot of stuff myself, for quite some time, but I...
  19. MindOverMatter

    Struggling to Adjust to Life with Tinnitus — Just Reaching Out

    First of all, I am sorry to hear about your struggles. You are less than six months in with your tinnitus, so there is a great chance for it to improve significantly. What you describe sounds like some level of loudness hyperacusis—sensitivity to sounds or certain soundscapes. This condition...
  20. MindOverMatter

    Increased Tinnitus and Hyperacusis After Alarm Exposure: Should I Get Hearing Aids?

    Sorry to hear about your unfortunate experience with this possible permanent spike, Joseph. Yes, hearing aids can be a bit of a double-edged sword when it comes to hyperacusis and sound sensitivity. You need to address these issues with your audiologist. The hearing aids must be set and...
  21. MindOverMatter

    Hearing t loud after naps is quite common for ppl with bothersome t. Have you done anything...

    Hearing t loud after naps is quite common for ppl with bothersome t. Have you done anything particular lately that could lead up to a spike/setback? Noise / stress / events in your life?
  22. MindOverMatter

    Almost 100% Cured of Hyperacusis and Tinnitus

    That is your definition and perception of it. You cannot label this on behalf of everyone else. No two people experience these conditions in exactly the same way.
  23. MindOverMatter

    Almost 100% Cured of Hyperacusis and Tinnitus

    Yes, one could call it that, @trevl. But in the end, labeling tinnitus is very much relative and subjective. Personally, I never label it, and I especially try to avoid words like “severe” (I know you were just answering a question about this). To me, “severe” is such a negatively loaded word...
  24. MindOverMatter

    @orenge01 So Finland has a bad/difficult job market these days? In Norway, at the time, Id say...

    @orenge01 So Finland has a bad/difficult job market these days? In Norway, at the time, Id say its very good with extremely low unemployment rate.
  25. MindOverMatter

    It seems to me that you should consider leaving your current job for something else. Given the...

    It seems to me that you should consider leaving your current job for something else. Given the circumstances. It might do you good. If possible.
  26. MindOverMatter

    Photo Album of Tinnitus Talk Members

    In symbiosis with nature, where I thrive and find my strength. “Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts.” - R. Carson
  27. MindOverMatter

    @Tryn2BHopeful Even though you might struggle at the moment, things can shift with time. Ive...

    @Tryn2BHopeful Even though you might struggle at the moment, things can shift with time. Ive seen and experienced this so many times myself. Ive had long lasting setbacks that has resolved after 4-6 months ++ several times. You will make it through 🙏
  28. MindOverMatter

    Uplifting Quotes and Words

    Heartfelt thanks, @Daniel Lion, for your kind words. 🙏 There is a lot of strength to be found in hope, positive thinking, and affirmations. I would certainly be lost without them, and I hope they can inspire and support others as well. Peace and courage.
  29. MindOverMatter

    On the Nature of My Hyperacusis: A Neurological Component?

    Agreed—well said! 👏 If we tense up or remain tense (fight-or-flight mode), the ears and related muscles tense up too. That makes setbacks much more likely. No doubt. People can say what they want about positive thinking, but I know from personal experience that one thing that definitely...
  30. MindOverMatter

    Should I Take Methylprednisolone Despite the Severe Side Effects I Experienced?

    I had 15 years of pretty much stable tinnitus before 2019, until “thunder struck me” late that year and brought me to my knees. It happened during a loud concert when I forgot to bring my earplugs. I misjudged the situation, made the mistake of staying, and paid the price. After that, I went to...
  31. MindOverMatter

    Tinnitus Spike While Grieving (Trigger Warning: Sudden Loss of a Loved One)

    Sorry to hear about your loss and pain, @Lins12. Such immense grief and sorrow can really exacerbate conditions like tinnitus. It will get better with time, as time is what you need now to process the sudden loss of your beloved. Like @Hazel advised, I’d wait a bit before trying a hearing aid...
  32. MindOverMatter

    Should I Take Methylprednisolone Despite the Severe Side Effects I Experienced?

    The use of Prednisone seems to be hit or miss in these cases, depending on whom you ask and their experience. If you’re experiencing all those side effects—some of which seem quite alarming—you should think twice before using it at all. Personally, I can’t recall Prednisone having a...
  33. MindOverMatter

    Struggling with Tinnitus Spike from Headset Use at Work: Any Advice?

    I know this was intended as a follow-up to @Michael Leigh, but I just want to point out that continuing to attend concerts, nightclubs, and other extremely loud events poses a significant risk if you have mild hyperacusis. This isn’t about stopping life altogether—we just have to adjust...
  34. MindOverMatter

    Sorry to hear this @ErikaS That being said, taking a supplement like this for just a few days...

    Sorry to hear this @ErikaS That being said, taking a supplement like this for just a few days, which in itself is harmless, won't leave you with a lasting spike. It might stick around for some times, at the worst, but I,m sure it will calm down again.
  35. MindOverMatter

    Good to hear! Thats the way forward with reactive t @Sammy0225 Once you are in control of your...

    Good to hear! Thats the way forward with reactive t @Sammy0225 Once you are in control of your own reaction pattern to it, things will slowly start to get a lot more manageable in regards to its reactive nature.
  36. MindOverMatter

    Withdrawing from Wearing Earmuffs at Home

    In my experience, this is overprotecting, which can further sensitize your auditory and central nervous systems. However, everyone is different, so it’s hard to say what will work for you.
  37. MindOverMatter

    Going to the Gym with Tinnitus: Worth It?

    I have reactive tinnitus and hyperacusis, and I go to the gym. Some days, my ears are more irritated by the noise level, but most of the time, I have no issues—it doesn’t make my condition worse. My reactivity and hyperacusis have improved a lot compared to before, but I’ve continued working...
  38. MindOverMatter

    2024 US Presidential Election

    @Luman, you should give Donald, the bully, a call. Maybe he has an open slot for you for a position in his administration. You'd be a great match 😅
  39. MindOverMatter

    How Do You Learn to Cope with the Uncertainty?

    This is quite common with hyperacusis (speaking from experience), and I don’t think you should place too much value on it or label it—especially by assuming the worst-case scenario. That will only make it worse, as hypervigilance, stress, and anxiety can make your nerves more tense, leading to...
  40. MindOverMatter

    How Do You Learn to Cope with the Uncertainty?

    Oh, really? Was it a joke? I got that, mate. 😅 I’m not sure what you’re trying to tell me. This isn’t a contest of who’s worse off. The trigeminal nerve is connected to the ear, so these mechanisms affect each other. Honestly, I don’t see much logic in what you wrote, except for the last...
  41. MindOverMatter

    How Do You Learn to Cope with the Uncertainty?

    For me, it was mostly a separate case. As I mentioned, it was 24/7 but worsened with cold weather, hot weather, wind, touch, and so on. And just to clarify, I’m referring to medical Botox, not cosmetic. If you keep looking for “horror stories” about people who didn’t improve, you’re only...
  42. MindOverMatter

    How Do You Learn to Cope with the Uncertainty?

    I had neuralgia in my face for more than two years, so I understand what you’re going through. I experienced constant facial pain, 24/7. When I was outdoors in the wind or strong sunlight, I had to cover my face because it felt like it was burning. Despite all the suffering, I had no choice but...
  43. MindOverMatter

    Even though it is difficult, you will make it guys. These spikes will ease up, eventually. Don't...

    Even though it is difficult, you will make it guys. These spikes will ease up, eventually. Don't forget we've been here so many times before. Its going to be okay, one way or another. I'm rooting for you 🙏
  44. MindOverMatter

    How Do You Learn to Cope with the Uncertainty?

    You are not feeling safe because this is still new to you, your brain, and your nervous system. This takes time. And like you said, it’s not the “end of the world.” With time, most people eventually learn to let go of their fears and fully accept it as it is for now. Once you reach that stage...
  45. MindOverMatter

    It is difficult to navigate through, no doubt about that. The "might have" and "what ifs" is...

    It is difficult to navigate through, no doubt about that. The "might have" and "what ifs" is pure fuel for this condition. They are like reminders for the brain. Reminding about the trauma many of us had after getting this, or getting worse at one point. Therefore I think positive affirmations...
  46. MindOverMatter

    The storm you are in at the moment won't last you forever. You will rise again. Keep your head...

    The storm you are in at the moment won't last you forever. You will rise again. Keep your head up mate - you'll get there. One day at a time.
  47. MindOverMatter

    I know the feeling @Tryn2BHopeful I came out from a long lasting spike recently. It took about...

    I know the feeling @Tryn2BHopeful I came out from a long lasting spike recently. It took about 2 months to normalize again. But once I was to take a step back and shift my focus again, I started afirming to myself that I'll be okay. I've been here so many times before, and I've done it before.
  48. MindOverMatter

    We also shouldn't forget about all the suffering around the world - which pretty much no people...

    We also shouldn't forget about all the suffering around the world - which pretty much no people asked for. We can ask ourselves "Why me" on repeat, but it won't help one but - its just another road block for the brain to adjust.
  49. MindOverMatter

    Your asking yourself a question non have the answer to (as you know). But, I think what is...

    Your asking yourself a question non have the answer to (as you know). But, I think what is essential here @Tryn2BHopeful is to have gratitude for the better days. Practicing this makes those less good days (which you refer to as hell), easier to cope with - and all in all, life becomes more...
  50. MindOverMatter

    To me spikes usually comes 24-72 hours after incidents. If it will occur at all. You might get...

    To me spikes usually comes 24-72 hours after incidents. If it will occur at all. You might get lucky and not get any prolonged spike. Eventually it will go down again, at one point, if not. You will be fine - stay positive and try to keep occupied and your stress levels down.
  51. MindOverMatter

    People with Dysacusis, Distortions or Loudness Hyperacusis — Describe Your Symptoms!

    I have no experience with the drugs you mentioned, but I have a lot of experience with reactive tinnitus. It’s mysterious, but you might be onto something regarding hyperactivity. When my anxiety is lower and I’m out of fight-or-flight mode, the reactive component of my tinnitus usually calms...
  52. MindOverMatter

    Should I Be in Silence or Expose Myself to Sound? (Reactive Tinnitus, Hyperacusis, Sound Distortions)

    It’s really difficult to give good advice when it comes to reactive tinnitus. But one thing I’m pretty sure of, having had reactive tinnitus for five years now, is that overprotecting isn’t the way to go. By that, I mean avoiding everyday sounds around the house and similar situations. The...
  53. MindOverMatter

    Post Your Favorite Quote(s)!

    Orwell's words are perhaps more relevant than ever 👏
  54. MindOverMatter

    2024 US Presidential Election

    It's unbelievable. Or maybe not, given Trump is in position again. He's always "had a thing" for dictators. Nevertheless, disgusting.
  55. MindOverMatter

    Remember, who you are today doesn't define who you will be tomorrow. Low points are natural ...

    Remember, who you are today doesn't define who you will be tomorrow. Low points are natural ...
  56. MindOverMatter

    Acoustic Shock from MRI: Ear Pain, Fullness, Fluid Buildup, Ringing, and Extreme Sensitivity to Sounds

    Short answer: yes. For most people, it does improve. For some, it may linger, but it often remains mild, and for many, it eventually goes away. However, setbacks can happen regardless. Returning to life exactly as it was before hyperacusis, even if it improves or resolves, is usually not a good...
  57. MindOverMatter

    From Mild Tinnitus to Reactive Tinnitus and Hyperacusis Case

    Why do you jump to the conclusion that you are screwed and have no future? Worsening doesn’t mean you will stay like this permanently. You might get better.
  58. MindOverMatter

    Microvascular Decompression (MVD) of the 8th Nerve

    I’m so sorry to hear about your struggles. Feeling hopeless and alone with a condition like hyperacusis is understandable because no one can truly grasp it without experiencing it themselves. That being said, I do think constantly searching for answers on Google and similar sources can be...
  59. MindOverMatter

    Frustrated with Myself After Acoustic Trauma: My Current Journey

    Sorry to hear about your struggles. I think you should try to let go of the thought—sooner rather than later—that this could have all been prevented. I’ve been down this road many times myself, but looking back like that is completely useless. You need to focus on moving forward, and I’m quite...
  60. MindOverMatter

    Introducing Tinnitus Quest

    Great work by Jack and Tinnitus Quest 👏👏 Awareness is the first step towards a brighter future for everyone in regards to tinnitus/hyperacusis.