Hello,
Unfortunately, I was already dealing with a tinnitus spike for three weeks after attending a wedding, even though I wore earplugs.
Yesterday, after work, I was preparing to leave. I usually wear ear protection for most of the day at work until I leave. As I was outside, about seven meters away, I suddenly heard a loud "bang" that startled me. It turned out that some guys in the shop were deploying an old, faulty airbag. I did not know they were setting it up, or I would have stayed far away.
The airbag was placed inside a tire, which should have helped dampen the sound, and it happened outdoors. There was also a car behind me, which I assume might have helped block some of the noise. Still, I am very worried that this incident may have damaged my hearing or caused my tinnitus to spike.
I looked up how loud airbags can be and started panicking. My anxiety led to a panic attack, and my TMJ flared up, causing pain in my ears and jaw.
When I got home, I was so upset that I cried to my girlfriend, who also has tinnitus. I took a shower and then tried to calm down with a nap.
Am I overreacting in this situation? I struggle with severe anxiety about loud sounds beyond my control, and I do everything I can to avoid exposure.
I would really appreciate any advice.
Unfortunately, I was already dealing with a tinnitus spike for three weeks after attending a wedding, even though I wore earplugs.
Yesterday, after work, I was preparing to leave. I usually wear ear protection for most of the day at work until I leave. As I was outside, about seven meters away, I suddenly heard a loud "bang" that startled me. It turned out that some guys in the shop were deploying an old, faulty airbag. I did not know they were setting it up, or I would have stayed far away.
The airbag was placed inside a tire, which should have helped dampen the sound, and it happened outdoors. There was also a car behind me, which I assume might have helped block some of the noise. Still, I am very worried that this incident may have damaged my hearing or caused my tinnitus to spike.
I looked up how loud airbags can be and started panicking. My anxiety led to a panic attack, and my TMJ flared up, causing pain in my ears and jaw.
When I got home, I was so upset that I cried to my girlfriend, who also has tinnitus. I took a shower and then tried to calm down with a nap.
Am I overreacting in this situation? I struggle with severe anxiety about loud sounds beyond my control, and I do everything I can to avoid exposure.
I would really appreciate any advice.
