Completely New to Tinnitus

I had never even heard of the word or the condition until 2 weeks ago, when my world became louder.

I woke up one morning with my left ear ringing and my first bout of vertigo. Presently, the vertigo is gone but the tinnitus seems like the new norm. The intensity is pretty severe, much like radio static and high frequency pitches 24/7. I haven't been fully diagnosed with nerve damage yet, but I suspect that's my diagnosis. I have more than 40% hearing loss, but it's more like 90%. My second ENT specialist has shifted my treatment to injected steroids (as opposed to the oral method). I'm feeling pretty pessimistic about any progress.

My background: I used to play live music in a punk band for about 10 years and I do frequent live shows. I've always tried to wear ear plugs; and one week had passed since my last live show prior to the onset. I'm sure it didn't help my hearing, but a sudden hear loss in one ear is/was pretty scary.

It's interesting to see and read people deal with tinnitus for long periods of time. I'm not at the point of embracing this yet, though signing up for this forum is my first reach for help and support. Ive been feeling defeated about this curve ball lately and I'm pulling out my woe is me card. Any sort of advice on how to cope with this constant ringing is appreciated...before I succumb to self pity ....

-Nancy

 

Nancy I'm sorry your going through this things can get better for you. The first thing I usually suggest to new people is to Google letter for a tinnitus sufferer. There are many people here who are doing great so while it's ok for you to be sad or mad you should know you can overcome t.

 

Nancy,

It's natural to feel pessimistic about it. Quite honestly, sometimes I'm still amazed at how I was able to function completely normally with tinnitus, and even be able to be happy. Sure a day didn't go by without me thinking about tinnitus, but even when I thought about it and was fully aware of it, I was to a point where it didn't bother me.

Many people here have habituated to severe tinnitus. It's amazing. Before I researched the issue and learned of people like Dr. Nagler, I wouldn't have thought it could be done.

No matter what happens, Nancy, know one thing: there is help and there are treatments. If it seems like you're overwhelmed and you'll never have happiness in your life again, keep in mind that virtually everyone on this message board felt that way. In fact, many people are still in that boat (but they're making progress) but there are many tinnitus veterans who are functioning so well that tinnitus hardly merits a mention on their daily radars. You'll get there too, even if it doesn't seem like it right now.

 

Hi Nancy Mae, Can't add to much more to what Cull & Matt had to say, You jusy have a look around and read all the various posts as to what others are experiencing. Remember you are not alone is this, as I usually tell new posters, "We Are Open 24/7/365"

 

Thank you everyone for being so welcoming. It's nice to know there are others that have coped with tinnitus and have been able to continue living a happy life.