How to Habituate to Tinnitus

[KaiT81]

Whether you are new to tinnitus, seasoned to it or a veteran experiencing a resurgence after a long habituation period, you are all going through a similar thing and that is having difficulty coping with it. You are probably thinking will my life ever return to some normality?

I'm six months in, and yes, I'm still having difficulty coping with it. I constantly wonder, will my life ever return to normal again?

Your life can improve but first you need to believe it, for this to become a reality.

I am being counseled by two former tinnitus sufferers, now experts and counselors—one from Germany and the other from Australia, from the Tinnitus Association Victoria. They have both told me about the promising prospect of habituation, explaining what it is and how it feels. However, on bad days, I still lose hope, feel despair, and find it hard to believe that I will one day be among those who have grown accustomed to the ringing in their ears.

Please don't sit there and do nothing and attempt to tough it out because tinnitus is quite capable of surprising you how resilient it can be, by sapping your mental strength and resolve.

Believe me, I fill my days as much as possible with enjoyable activities with my wife and kids, even though I often feel anxious and depressed. That's why I'm currently on sick leave, even though, for example, the Tinnitus Association Victoria advises continuing to work and normalizing life. I understand their recommendation, but right now, I just can't do it.

When negative thinking is removed and demystified, the tinnitus no longer takes centre stage and therefore, its perception is pushed further back into the mind.

Does this also apply to tinnitus caused by an ear infection? I don't think I experienced any severe hearing loss. It's more likely that the filtering function in my brain has been affected, allowing me to hear my mind at work. My tinnitus sounds like a high-pitched buzzing.

 

[Michael Leigh]

I'm six months in, and yes, I'm still having difficulty coping with it. I constantly wonder, will my life ever return to normal again?

I understand the difficulties that you are going through with tinnitus at the moment. Don't be too hard on yourself. Take each day at a time. Remember to use low-level sound enrichment, especially at night. Read my thread: The Habituation Process.

I am being counseled by two former tinnitus sufferers, now experts and counselors—one from Germany and the other from Australia, from the Tinnitus Association Victoria. They have both told me about the promising prospect of habituation, explaining what it is and how it feels. However, on bad days, I still lose hope, feel despair, and find it hard to believe that I will one day be among those who have grown accustomed to the ringing in their ears.

It is understandable that on bad days, you lose hope and feel despair. Please don't be too hard on yourself, as I believe your circumstances will improve with time. Talk to your doctors and explain how you feel. They may advise that you take medication that can act as a safety net so you don't become too down.

Believe me, I fill my days as much as possible with enjoyable activities with my wife and kids, even though I often feel anxious and depressed. That's why I'm currently on sick leave, even though, for example, the Tinnitus Association Victoria advises continuing to work and normalizing life. I understand their recommendation, but right now, I just can't do it.

I don't agree with what your tinnitus advisers have told you. When tinnitus is severe, it can prevent a person from doing the things that they would like to do, and this includes the ability to work. Anyone who has suffered from severe tinnitus knows this. I mean no disrespect to your tinnitus advisers, but in my opinion, they have never suffered from severe tinnitus; otherwise, they would be more understanding and never mentioned that you should continue to work. When the time is right, you can return to work, but it is not now.

I have corresponded with and counseled people with tinnitus for many years. Reading your words and experience tells me that you are going through some difficulties at the moment. Don't let anyone make you feel guilty, for they don't know what you're going through, and they aren't living your life.

Believe me, I fill my days as much as possible with enjoyable activities with my wife and kids, even though I often feel anxious and depressed. That's why I'm currently on sick leave, even though, for example, the Tinnitus Association Victoria advises continuing to work and normalizing life. I understand their recommendation, but right now, I just can't do it.

It is good that you are keeping yourself occupied. Once again, please talk to your doctors about any anxiety or depression you might have. Take time and try not to push yourself too hard.

Does this also apply to tinnitus caused by an ear infection? I don't think I experienced any severe hearing loss. It's more likely that the filtering function in my brain has been affected, allowing me to hear my mind at work. My tinnitus sounds like a high-pitched buzzing.

I mostly advise people affected by noise-induced tinnitus with or without hyperacusis because I have experience with it.

If an ear infection causes your tinnitus and is not noise-induced, once the infection is treated and eventually clears up, the tinnitus usually goes away in time. For some people, the tinnitus can linger for quite a while, but it should eventually go away. I advise you not to listen to audio through headphones, earbuds, AirPods, headsets, or noise-canceling headphones, even at low volume.

I hope you start to feel better soon.

Take care,
Michael

 

[KaiT81]

I understand the difficulties that you are going through with tinnitus at the moment. Don't be too hard on yourself. Take each day at a time. Remember to use low-level sound enrichment, especially at night. Read my thread: The Habituation Process.

Thank you so much for your understanding and encouraging words. I've been using sound enrichment for a few months now. In the beginning stages of my tinnitus, it was more about masking the noise, which I still rely on during particularly bad days. I understand that in order to habituate to tinnitus, it's important to hear it above the sound enrichment. However, I still find the sound so unpleasant that it immediately puts me in a bad mood or even triggers depressive thoughts, so I tend to prefer masking it with other sounds.

While my tinnitus isn't particularly loud, it is extremely intrusive, and its impact on my life feels overwhelming.

I really hope that through habituation, my brain will soon stop classifying the noise as a threat, or at least as less of a threat. If that happens, it seems like the noise would become less unpleasant and intrusive, maybe even quieter, or at least easier to block out over time. When that happens, I imagine there will be less stress, which would help reduce the anxiety, depression, and sleep issues I've been struggling with—right?

It is understandable that on bad days, you lose hope and feel despair. Please don't be too hard on yourself, as I believe your circumstances will improve with time. Talk to your doctors and explain how you feel. They may advise that you take medication that can act as a safety net so you don't become too down.

Thank you again for your understanding and supportive words. I'm in contact with my doctors and have been taking a low dose of antidepressants for six months to help with sleep (7.5 mg of mirtazapine). I tried an SSRI (sertraline) back in March, but unfortunately, I didn't tolerate it well at all. I believe my doctors are considering increasing my antidepressant dosage, but I'm very skeptical due to some negative past experiences.

In addition, I take some supplements that are supposed to help, as well as Lasea, a natural lavender extract said to have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects.

I know that after six months, some people are well on their way to habituation, with the noise bothering them much less or even being something they can block out. However, I've also heard that for some, it can take longer—one or two years—so there is still hope for me, right?

The most challenging part is figuring out how to persevere while maintaining a somewhat normal life, going to work, and still being present for my loved ones.

I don't agree with what your tinnitus advisers have told you. When tinnitus is severe, it can prevent a person from doing the things that they would like to do, and this includes the ability to work. Anyone who has suffered from severe tinnitus knows this. I mean no disrespect to your tinnitus advisers, but in my opinion, they have never suffered from severe tinnitus; otherwise, they would be more understanding and never mentioned that you should continue to work. When the time is right, you can return to work, but it is not now.

I have corresponded with and counseled people with tinnitus for many years. Reading your words and experience tells me that you are going through some difficulties at the moment. Don't let anyone make you feel guilty, for they don't know what you're going through, and they aren't living your life.

Thank you again for your understanding! Believe me, I want to work and would love to be able to return to my job as soon as possible—but right now, I feel too unwell, too unstable, and too consumed by my tinnitus to manage that.

As you mentioned, I know I shouldn't, but I feel guilty for not being able to function, for not being able to work, and for struggling to cope with this condition. Many people in my circle of acquaintances and family just don't understand how I feel or why I'm suffering so much.

It's reassuring to know that other tinnitus sufferers have also been unable to work for a time, as I see from your reply and your posts on Tinnitus Talk, all of which I'm reading right now! It gives me hope when you say that I can return to work when the time is right!

It is good that you are keeping yourself occupied. Once again, please talk to your doctors about any anxiety or depression you might have. Take time and try not to push yourself too hard.

Thank you for that. So, if I understand correctly, you're suggesting that I shouldn't overexert myself despite my condition?

I've been doing a lot—walking, cycling, gardening—and as a result, I've lost quite a bit of weight since developing tinnitus. I also feel more exhausted than usual.

I've always had a tendency to get tired quickly, and I used to find strength and relaxation in silence, whether it was reading in peace, watching TV, or listening to music—activities that are no longer possible for me right now.

 

[Michael Leigh]

I really hope that through habituation, my brain will soon stop classifying the noise as a threat, or at least as less of a threat. If that happens, it seems like the noise would become less unpleasant and intrusive, maybe even quieter, or at least easier to block out over time. When that happens, I imagine there will be less stress, which would help reduce the anxiety, depression, and sleep issues I've been struggling with—right?

I advise you to take it one day at a time and not look for any expectations, as you will likely be disappointed if they do not come to fruition. Tinnitus can be very unpredictable in the early stages and beyond, so try to take things easy and relax.

I know that after six months, some people are well on their way to habituation, with the noise bothering them much less or even being something they can block out. However, I've also heard that for some, it can take longer—one or two years—so there is still hope for me, right?

There is always hope. You are in the early stages of tinnitus, so you're putting pressure on yourself without realizing it. It is something that affects a lot of people who are new to tinnitus. Each person's tinnitus is unique to them because we are all different. The habituation process takes time and cannot be rushed. I advise you to print my threads on habituation and positivity. They are a form of counseling that can help you stay calm and relaxed. Tinnitus can have a profound effect on one's mental and emotional wellbeing, and therefore, it's important stress and anxiety are kept under control. Talk to your doctors if you ever feel that things are becoming too much.

Thank you for that. So, if I understand correctly, you're suggesting that I shouldn't overexert myself despite my condition?

That is correct. You shouldn't overexert yourself. Take things slowly and at a steady pace.

I've always had a tendency to get tired quickly, and I used to find strength and relaxation in silence, whether it was reading in peace, watching TV, or listening to music—activities that are no longer possible for me right now.

In time, you will be able to return to the things you like to do. Try to concentrate on the things you can do at the moment, take comfort in that, and not think about the things you can't do.

I wish you well,
Michael

 

[KaiT81]

If you can, please stop keeping a daily journal of how your is affecting you.

If I understand correctly, your advice to tinnitus sufferers is to avoid keeping a journal where they record how loud the tinnitus is, how much it bothers them, and how it affects their mood each day. Is that right? That's exactly what I've been doing for the past six months.

 

[Michael Leigh]

If I understand correctly, your advice to tinnitus sufferers is to avoid keeping a journal where they record how loud the tinnitus is, how much it bothers them, and how it affects their mood each day. Is that right? That's exactly what I've been doing for the past six months.

Please understand that the advice I offer at Tinnitus Talk is not absolute because everyone's experience is different. What works for one person may not work for another. However, my advice is based on 28 years of experience living with noise-induced tinnitus. I have also counseled and corresponded with many individuals affected by noise-induced tinnitus and hyperacusis.

I recommend that people avoid keeping a journal to track how their tinnitus behaves, as this practice can often lead to focusing more on the condition. The intensity of tinnitus can vary significantly, especially for those who are new to it. Some days, they may feel like they're coping well and believe they have turned a corner, only to find the next day that their tinnitus has become more intrusive. This fluctuation can have a profound negative impact on a person's mental and emotional well-being if not managed carefully. Remember, tinnitus is closely tied to our mental and emotional health and cannot be separated from it.

Instead, I suggest focusing on activities that distract from thinking about tinnitus. Take up a new hobby or interest. If possible, go out and socialize, even if just for a short while. I explained this in detail to a person I spoke with last Sunday, who is new to tinnitus. In her own words, she had become quite addicted to researching tinnitus and had come across a lot of negative information online, which isn't helpful.

On a positive note, she engaged with me for quite some time. From my experience speaking with others, I'm confident that in time, she will be just fine. She is now exploring other avenues as I suggested and has decided to stop focusing so much on her tinnitus.

All the best,
Michael

 

[KaiT81]

There is always hope. You are in the early stages of tinnitus, so you're putting pressure on yourself without realizing it. It is something that affects a lot of people who are new to tinnitus. Each person's tinnitus is unique to them because we are all different. The habituation process takes time and cannot be rushed.

Yes, it really seems that even after six months, I am still in the early stages of dealing with my tinnitus. I wish I were further along! However, what I often read here is that it takes patience and perseverance to learn how to cope with tinnitus. You also mention that the habituation process takes time and that there are no shortcuts.

In time, you will be able to return to the things you like to do.

I really hope to feel better soon and be able to get back to the things I enjoy and truly want to do—not just for my sake, but also for the sake of my wife and children!

The intensity of tinnitus can vary significantly, especially for those who are new to it. Some days, they may feel like they're coping well and believe they have turned a corner, only to find the next day that their tinnitus has become more intrusive.

Yes, that's exactly how I feel. Sometimes I have really good days, occasionally several in a row, and I think I'm well on my way to habituation. But then there are very bad days that feel truly devastating for me.

I recommend that people avoid keeping a journal to track how their tinnitus behaves, as this practice can often lead to focusing more on the condition.

I always think it might be helpful to track your progress and see from your notes whether there is a trend in the right direction. However, as I read in one of your threads, you'll know you've reached habituation when the tinnitus either no longer bothers you or bothers you significantly less.

Please understand that the advice I offer at Tinnitus Talk is not absolute because everyone's experience is different. What works for one person may not work for another. However, my advice is based on 28 years of experience living with noise-induced tinnitus. I have also counseled and corresponded with many individuals affected by noise-induced tinnitus and hyperacusis.

Thank you for your encouragement and advice. It is usually helpful to talk to tinnitus counselors, other sufferers, and people who are already managing their tinnitus. Sharing experiences and learning what has helped others can make a big difference.

 

[KaiT81]

I'm sorry for writing so often and so much, @Michael Leigh. I'm really struggling at the moment. The usual tips about distracting activities, which I've received from many people and have also read from you, aren't helping me this time. My tinnitus is so intrusive that, especially on bad days, I can always hear it. It's constantly annoying, and I can never block it out.

I can compare it to the tinnitus I had as a teenager. Back then, it stressed me out in the evenings and at night, and for a long time, I could only fall asleep with very loud music. But compared to today, I was at least able to sleep and sleep well. During the day, I could go about my usual activities—attending school, doing homework, and so on—so the tinnitus didn't bother me much or at all. Over time, I noticed it less and less until it eventually disappeared completely after a few months or years.

Although it stressed me out back then, from today's perspective, I can say it was much easier to cope with tinnitus, especially when it was drowned out by everyday noises or when I could block it out. That's not the case with my tinnitus today. It's rarely drowned out by everyday sounds, and I can only very rarely, if ever, block it out.

 

[Michael Leigh]

I'm sorry for writing so often and so much, @Michael Leigh. I'm really struggling at the moment.

Don't worry about writing frequently—Tinnitus Talk is a support forum, after all. Tinnitus can be incredibly debilitating when it's severe, and it can feel almost impossible to block out the noise and carry on with daily activities to distract yourself. I understand how you're feeling right now and recommend that you talk to your GP/PCP and ENT doctor. Be open about your symptoms and how you're coping.

Your doctors might suggest adjusting or increasing your medication to help you manage the tinnitus more effectively. If you drink alcohol, I suggest trying a glass or two of wine in the evening for medicinal purposes. This has helped me a lot when my tinnitus becomes very intrusive, though it's just a suggestion.

Please talk to your doctors.

All the best,
Michael

 

[Lipshitz]

I understand the difficulties that you are going through with tinnitus at the moment. Don't be too hard on yourself. Take each day at a time. Remember to use low-level sound enrichment, especially at night. Read my thread: The Habituation Process.

It is understandable that on bad days, you lose hope and feel despair. Please don't be too hard on yourself, as I believe your circumstances will improve with time. Talk to your doctors and explain how you feel. They may advise that you take medication that can act as a safety net so you don't become too down.

I don't agree with what your tinnitus advisers have told you. When tinnitus is severe, it can prevent a person from doing the things that they would like to do, and this includes the ability to work. Anyone who has suffered from severe tinnitus knows this. I mean no disrespect to your tinnitus advisers, but in my opinion, they have never suffered from severe tinnitus; otherwise, they would be more understanding and never mentioned that you should continue to work. When the time is right, you can return to work, but it is not now.

I have corresponded with and counseled people with tinnitus for many years. Reading your words and experience tells me that you are going through some difficulties at the moment. Don't let anyone make you feel guilty, for they don't know what you're going through, and they aren't living your life.

It is good that you are keeping yourself occupied. Once again, please talk to your doctors about any anxiety or depression you might have. Take time and try not to push yourself too hard.

I mostly advise people affected by noise-induced tinnitus with or without hyperacusis because I have experience with it.

If an ear infection causes your tinnitus and is not noise-induced, once the infection is treated and eventually clears up, the tinnitus usually goes away in time. For some people, the tinnitus can linger for quite a while, but it should eventually go away. I advise you not to listen to audio through headphones, earbuds, AirPods, headsets, or noise-canceling headphones, even at low volume.

I hope you start to feel better soon.

Take care,
Michael

People with severe tinnitus should continue working because the more they keep their mind occupied, the less they focus on the tinnitus. Obviously, this applies to tinnitus alone; I'm not referring to tinnitus combined with pain or loudness hyperacusis. The last thing someone with severe tinnitus should do is sit around all day, staring at the walls in their home or apartment, thinking and talking about it.

 

[Michael Leigh]

People with severe tinnitus should continue working because the more they keep their mind occupied, the less they focus on the tinnitus. Obviously, this applies to tinnitus alone; I'm not referring to tinnitus combined with pain or loudness hyperacusis. The last thing someone with severe tinnitus should do is sit around all day, staring at the walls in their home or apartment, thinking and talking about it.

You have clearly never experienced severe, debilitating tinnitus; otherwise, you wouldn't be speaking such nonsense. Many people have taken their own lives because they couldn't cope with the constant cacophony of noise in their heads and ears. Some of these individuals were members of Tinnitus Talk.

I no longer wish to correspond with you, as I am disgusted by your attitude. If you contact me again, I will place you on ignore.

Michael Leigh

 

[KaiT81]

Many people have taken their own lives because they couldn't cope with the constant cacophony of noise in their heads and ears. Some of these individuals were members of Tinnitus Talk.

At first, that really freaked me out. However, I completely understand why you reacted the way you did to @Lipshitz's post. Sometimes I wonder about what gets posted here (and I don't mean your posts, @Michael Leigh), even though this is called the *Tinnitus Talk Support Forum*.

I probably don't need to justify myself to him or anyone else, but for the record, I don't just stare at the wall all day. I go for walks, ride my bike, do housework and gardening, play with my children, help my wife, read, and do other things—within the limits of my condition. However, I currently don't feel well enough to meet the demands of a highly skilled and responsible job.

 

[Michael Leigh]

I probably don't need to justify myself to him or anyone else, but for the record, I don't just stare at the wall all day. I go for walks, ride my bike, do housework and gardening, play with my children, help my wife, read, and do other things—within the limits of my condition. However, I currently don't feel well enough to meet the demands of a highly skilled and responsible job.

Tinnitus can be mild, moderate, or severe. Some people with mild tinnitus have no idea it can reach severe levels until it happens to them.

Take care,
Michael

 

[KaiT81]

Tinnitus can be mild, moderate, or severe. Some people with mild tinnitus have no idea it can reach severe levels until it happens to them.

I think my tinnitus is mild to moderate at best—but my reaction to it and my suffering are (still) severe.

 

[cicou]

Hello @Michael Leigh,

I am French, so please excuse my English. I need your wise advice to help me with my condition.

Approximately 10 years ago, I developed tinnitus in my left ear. Very quickly, I became depressed and was prescribed antidepressants. I tried a few that did not work for me until I eventually started taking Duloxetine at 60 mg, about three months after the onset. Gradually, with this medication, my condition improved, and I was able to stop using the benzodiazepine (Seresta). Of course, I was not entirely free of trouble.

I was diagnosed with mild hearing loss in my left ear around 4000 Hz, but nothing severe. No one could definitively tell me where my tinnitus originated. Regardless, I began exploring different options to reduce the noise, but none were truly effective. What truly made a difference was simply allowing time to pass. Thanks to the antidepressant, I could get good sleep, which greatly helped me cope during the day. Over time, I gradually adjusted to the tinnitus, and I even believe the noise level decreased.

Eventually, I began tapering my dose of Duloxetine. It took two years to discontinue it completely. By around 2018, I could say I was entirely free from tinnitus, three years after its onset.

Everything was fine until January this year when the tinnitus returned. This time, it was primarily in my left ear but also affected my right. As the noise became too loud for me to bear, I decided to return to Duloxetine, sometimes using Seresta as well. However, nearly four months later, things have not followed the same path as they did 10 years ago.

At first, I experienced fluctuating tinnitus—bad for a few days, then better for a few others. After about two months, the noise became more intrusive, with more bad days than good ones. I decided to increase my Duloxetine dose to 90 mg. Initially, it seemed to work, and I had days with low or moderate tinnitus.

Unfortunately, I made the mistake of thinking 90 mg was too much, so I decided to taper the dose. Unsurprisingly, the tinnitus returned. I went back to 90 mg, and once again, it seemed to help at first. But two weeks ago, the tinnitus changed. It became more constant throughout the day and night, with a high-pitched tone around 11,000 Hz.

Since then, my life has been a mess. I am struggling with negative thoughts and feel like this new condition will never go away. I have tried contacting psychologists for cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), but they are all fully booked in my area, and I have to wait five months for a consultation.

I am truly desperate now, which is why I am reaching out for your advice.

I hope I have not been too long-winded.

 

[Michael Leigh]

I am truly desperate now, which is why I am reaching out for your advice.

Hi @cicou.

I am sorry to hear of the difficulties that you are having with tinnitus at the moment. I advise you to print the articles listed below, which are available on my started threads. Take your time and read them. This way you will absorb and retain the information better than reading it on your phone or computer screen. There are other articles that you might find helpful; please print them as well.

I recommend that you consult an ENT doctor as soon as possible, so that tests can be conducted on your ears and auditory system. If you find the medication you mentioned helpful, continue taking it under the guidance of your GP or PCP.

Tinnitus can be a very complex condition that no two people will experience the same way. The information you provided in your post suggests that I think it's best for you to be examined by an ENT doctor. If you are advised to have an MRI, then please follow this advice.

My own tinnitus has changed significantly since February 2024, after 28 years. I am taking Clonazepam regularly. If it wasn't for this medication, I don't know what I would do. My GP is closely monitoring the amount I take. Because my tinnitus has changed to unilateral, only experienced in my right ear, this alarmed the doctors at my medical practice, as it raises a red flag. For this reason, I was advised to have an MRI. Fortunately, nothing untoward has been found. I am waiting to see an ENT consultant.

I have mentioned what I am going through to try and convey to you that when tinnitus is severe, it's best to be under the care of medical professionals.

I hope you start to feel better soon.

Take care,
Michael

• New to Tinnitus, What to Do?
• Hyperacusis, As I See It
• Tinnitus and the Negative Mindset
• Acquiring a Positive Mindset
• How to Habituate to Tinnitus
• The Habituation Process
• Can I Habituate to Variable Tinnitus?
• Medication and Tinnitus

 

[Former newyorker]

Hi @Michael Leigh,

I believe I developed noise-induced tinnitus in December 2018. At first, I experienced severe anxiety, but over time, I have managed to cope better. However, my tinnitus has changed over the years, and for many years now, I have experienced 24/7 head tinnitus, which I have not been able to adapt to. I will soon be 75 and retired, and I genuinely wish I could adjust to it.

I have tried meditation, but I couldn't relax with the constant generator sound in my head. About three years ago, I was also diagnosed with occipital neuralgia, which has made dealing with tinnitus even more challenging. Despite this, I still live my life, enjoy my family, and cherish time with my two beautiful granddaughters. But hearing a constant noise in your head can cause anyone anxiety.

Years ago, I took Clonazepam but stopped because I was worried about becoming dependent on it. I have visited many ENTs and neurologists, but none seem to understand tinnitus or truly care. I got hearing aids a couple of years ago, hoping they might help with the tinnitus. While they improved my hearing, they did not reduce the tinnitus.

You mentioned sound generators—are they available in the United States? No ENT has ever mentioned them to me. Can I buy them online and use them myself? Also, you advised against listening to sounds or music through earbuds or headphones. My audiologist set up masking sounds in my hearing aids, and I can also listen to music via Bluetooth through them. Is that harmful too? Could this be keeping my tinnitus in a constant fight-or-flight mode, as it starts the minute I wake up and lasts until I fall asleep? Thankfully, melatonin helps me sleep most nights.

What about watching movies on long flights to pass the time? Should I take breaks to avoid worsening my tinnitus?

Is there a way to calm my brain? I recently bought Olly Goodbye Stress gummies but have not tried them yet. Has anyone here tried them?

Sorry for the very long message, but I am really looking for suggestions to better manage my tinnitus.

Thank you for all your help.

Mary

 

[Michael Leigh]

Years ago, I took Clonazepam but stopped because I was worried about becoming dependent on it

Hi Mary,

You are unlikely to become addicted to Clonazepam if you are properly managed by your GP/PCP on how much you take. My ENT consultant prescribed me Clonazepam in 2010. I was advised to take it only when the tinnitus was severe. I would take 2X 0.5 mg tablets, once or twice a month for up to 3 days, then stop. This lasted for many years until my bilateral tinnitus changed significantly in February 2024, to unilateral. The tinnitus is only in my right ear. The level of severity is nothing like I have ever experienced in 28 years I have lived tinnitus. It has been absolutely excruciating at times, and I'm still having difficulty managing it.

Tinnitus is no joke when it reaches severe levels and is sustained, so I sympathize with what you're going through. White noise generators can be helpful, but you need to be under the care of an audiologist who specialises in tinnitus and hyperacusis management. Your audiologist may advise counselling if you're suitable for wearing white noise generators.

If your hearing is impaired, then you should be fitted with hearing aid(s). Some hearing aids enable music to be streamed via Bluetooth to them. I don't recommend streaming music to hearing aids, as it's possible the tinnitus could be made worse. This is just my opinion and is not absolute because we are all different. Using white or pink noise with hearing aids for sound enrichment is usually fine. However, the sound enrichment should be introduced slowly. Please read my articles on wearing white noise generators in my started threads.

I live in the UK and therefore, I'm not familiar with what's available to you in the US. My understanding is that hearing aids are available with white and pink noise by the brand name Widex. Please discuss what help is available with your ENT doctor and audiologist.

Please read my post above to @cicou, and print my articles.

Hope you start to feel better soon.

All the best,
Michael

 

[Saba]

I have been using Widex hearing aids for sound therapy for about one year. I have mild hearing loss. I also take Clonazepam, 0.25 mg in the morning and 0.25 mg in the evening, along with 50 mg of Zoloft. These medications are part of my daily routine. My tinnitus is a result of loud noise exposure from gunfire. Initially, I would have rated my tinnitus as a 10, but now it is around a 3. I experience fewer spikes when taking Clonazepam in both the morning and evening. I rely on these medications, time, and especially my faith to sustain me. While tinnitus has undoubtedly changed my life, I continue to find hope through prayer and the sacraments of the Catholic Church.

Interestingly, I was in the process of weaning off Zoloft when the trauma occurred. It has been 13 months since the onset. I am 62 years old and have been on Zoloft since my 30s. I even took Clonazepam for a short period during that time, so returning to it for tinnitus management did not cause me concern.

The Widex hearing aids with sound therapy have been a tremendous support as I experimented with different medications and experienced spikes. I use white noise at a very low level, avoiding music. I am cautious about noise exposure and use earmuffs with a decibel rating of 22-30 when I am in noisy environments. I only wear them when I anticipate loud sounds. My hyperacusis has also improved, and I no longer experience muffled hearing. My tinnitus is a constant tone, similar to the sound of an old phone left off the hook.

I offer my prayers to the tinnitus community daily, hoping for effective treatments, relief, and the miracle of a cure to silence it.

 

[cicou]

Hi @cicou.

I am sorry to hear of the difficulties that you are having with tinnitus at the moment. I advise you to print the articles listed below, which are available on my started threads. Take your time and read them. This way you will absorb and retain the information better than reading it on your phone or computer screen. There are other articles that you might find helpful; please print them as well.

I recommend that you consult an ENT doctor as soon as possible, so that tests can be conducted on your ears and auditory system. If you find the medication you mentioned helpful, continue taking it under the guidance of your GP or PCP.

Tinnitus can be a very complex condition that no two people will experience the same way. The information you provided in your post suggests that I think it's best for you to be examined by an ENT doctor. If you are advised to have an MRI, then please follow this advice.

My own tinnitus has changed significantly since February 2024, after 28 years. I am taking Clonazepam regularly. If it wasn't for this medication, I don't know what I would do. My GP is closely monitoring the amount I take. Because my tinnitus has changed to unilateral, only experienced in my right ear, this alarmed the doctors at my medical practice, as it raises a red flag. For this reason, I was advised to have an MRI. Fortunately, nothing untoward has been found. I am waiting to see an ENT consultant.

I have mentioned what I am going through to try and convey to you that when tinnitus is severe, it's best to be under the care of medical professionals.

I hope you start to feel better soon.

Take care,
Michael

• New to Tinnitus, What to Do?
• Hyperacusis, As I See It
• Tinnitus and the Negative Mindset
• Acquiring a Positive Mindset
• How to Habituate to Tinnitus
• The Habituation Process
• Can I Habituate to Variable Tinnitus?
• Medication and Tinnitus

Thank you, Michael, for your feedback. I will do my best to review everything you have written, as much as my condition allows me to focus on reading.

I sincerely wish you all the best.

Take care,
Cyril

 

[Former newyorker]

Hi Mary,

You are unlikely to become addicted to Clonazepam if you are properly managed by your GP/PCP on how much you take. My ENT consultant prescribed me Clonazepam in 2010. I was advised to take it only when the tinnitus was severe. I would take 2X 0.5 mg tablets, once or twice a month for up to 3 days, then stop. This lasted for many years until my bilateral tinnitus changed significantly in February 2024, to unilateral. The tinnitus is only in my right ear. The level of severity is nothing like I have ever experienced in 28 years I have lived tinnitus. It has been absolutely excruciating at times, and I'm still having difficulty managing it.

Tinnitus is no joke when it reaches severe levels and is sustained, so I sympathize with what you're going through. White noise generators can be helpful, but you need to be under the care of an audiologist who specialises in tinnitus and hyperacusis management. Your audiologist may advise counselling if you're suitable for wearing white noise generators.

If your hearing is impaired, then you should be fitted with hearing aid(s). Some hearing aids enable music to be streamed via Bluetooth to them. I don't recommend streaming music to hearing aids, as it's possible the tinnitus could be made worse. This is just my opinion and is not absolute because we are all different. Using white or pink noise with hearing aids for sound enrichment is usually fine. However, the sound enrichment should be introduced slowly. Please read my articles on wearing white noise generators in my started threads.

I live in the UK and therefore, I'm not familiar with what's available to you in the US. My understanding is that hearing aids are available with white and pink noise by the brand name Widex. Please discuss what help is available with your ENT doctor and audiologist.

Please read my post above to @cicou, and print my articles.

Hope you start to feel better soon.

All the best,
Michael

Thank you, Michael.

I have Oticon hearing aids with an ocean sound feature installed, but nothing I listen to can mask the terrible head noise I constantly experience. Now that the weather is nice, I walk outside, but even all the outdoor noise does not drown out the head noise. I watch TV, but the enjoyment is no longer there. I will talk to my doctor about Clonazepam and consider trying it again. You mentioned taking Clonazepam when it is bad—my tinnitus is always there, so it always feels bad.

I have downloaded apps on my iPhone that offer pink and white noise options. When I listen to music in a quiet room, I use my iPhone's speaker instead of my hearing aids. I often wonder how long I should use sound enrichment, like pink noise, each day to help with tinnitus. Is it harmful to listen to both the TV and pink or white noise through my hearing aids at the same time?

At night, I always use a sound machine in my bedroom, set so low that I can barely hear it without my hearing aids. Because of this, I am unsure how it affects my brain while I sleep. Like many others, I sometimes blame myself for my tinnitus and wonder if anxiety is preventing me from habituating. An audiologist once told me she did not believe the loud blast from the CD player caused my tinnitus but suggested hearing loss was the cause instead.

Thank you again for your support and kind words.

Mary

I have been using Widex hearing aids for sound therapy for about one year. I have mild hearing loss. I also take Clonazepam, 0.25 mg in the morning and 0.25 mg in the evening, along with 50 mg of Zoloft. These medications are part of my daily routine. My tinnitus is a result of loud noise exposure from gunfire. Initially, I would have rated my tinnitus as a 10, but now it is around a 3. I experience fewer spikes when taking Clonazepam in both the morning and evening. I rely on these medications, time, and especially my faith to sustain me. While tinnitus has undoubtedly changed my life, I continue to find hope through prayer and the sacraments of the Catholic Church.

Interestingly, I was in the process of weaning off Zoloft when the trauma occurred. It has been 13 months since the onset. I am 62 years old and have been on Zoloft since my 30s. I even took Clonazepam for a short period during that time, so returning to it for tinnitus management did not cause me concern.

The Widex hearing aids with sound therapy have been a tremendous support as I experimented with different medications and experienced spikes. I use white noise at a very low level, avoiding music. I am cautious about noise exposure and use earmuffs with a decibel rating of 22-30 when I am in noisy environments. I only wear them when I anticipate loud sounds. My hyperacusis has also improved, and I no longer experience muffled hearing. My tinnitus is a constant tone, similar to the sound of an old phone left off the hook.

I offer my prayers to the tinnitus community daily, hoping for effective treatments, relief, and the miracle of a cure to silence it.

Thank you, Saba.

I am also Catholic, and I pray every night for everyone dealing with tinnitus. I am glad the medications work for you. I assume the low dosages do not make you groggy, which is something I worry about if I try Clonazepam again. I do not believe I have hyperacusis, as I do not experience any of the symptoms I have read about.

I protect my ears when using a blow dryer, and when I go to restaurants occasionally, the noise never bothers me. I already have enough of my own noise in my head. My granddaughters, ages two and seven, can get noisy at times when we are around them, but they are such a joy that I overlook it.

God bless you.

Mary

 

[Michael Leigh]

I have Oticon hearing aids with an ocean sound feature installed

Hi Mary,

I also use Oticon hearing aids with 3 sounds built in: Pink noise, white noise, and ocean waves. I do not have any hearing loss, so my audiologist disabled the hearing aids via computer when I was fitted with the hearing aids. They operate purely as wearable sound generators.

Please read my TRT articles on the threads I've started. They explain the correct way to use wearable sound generators. The idea is not to "mask" or attempt to cover up the tinnitus so it can't be heard. If you try to do this, you won't succeed, and it will make it more difficult for you to habituate to the tinnitus. Always set the sound enrichment slightly below the tinnitus.

I have explained the process of wearing hearing aids with built-in sound enrichment in many of my posts. You should first get used to using the hearing aids alone. Then, slowly introduce the ocean sounds.

Please read my article, 'Tinnitus and Sound Machines,' on my started threads. It explains the correct way to use sound enrichment. Again, the level of the sounds mustn't be set at a level where they are drawing attention. You should easily be able to ignore the sounds. It takes time and patience to learn how to use sound enrichment. When done correctly, it can be very helpful.

Please keep in mind that sound enrichment has its limitations. When tinnitus is very severe, one may need to take medication to help reduce the severity of the tinnitus to a manageable level.

Talk to your audiologist and ENT doctor about the way the tinnitus is affecting your life.

Best of luck,
Michael

Thank you, Michael, for your feedback. I will do my best to review everything you have written, as much as my condition allows me to focus on reading.

I sincerely wish you all the best.

Take care,
Cyril

Hi Cyril,

I know how difficult reading can be when tinnitus is severe. I am an avid reader, but unfortunately, since my tinnitus changed to unilateral and increased in severity, it has made reading much more difficult.

Last year, I attended the book signing of my favourite author, Peter James, here in Brighton. His books helped me get back into reading after 2 years not being able to read because of severe tinnitus from 2008 to 2010. I wrote to him thanking him for his Roy Grace books. It's one of the reasons I moved to Brighton from London in 2014.

Peter James always asks about my tinnitus. I didn't have the heart to tell him I've been suffering a lot. I have his signed book, but have only read a few chapters, then had to put it down. I will return to it when I feel better.

I am someone who doesn't give up easily; therefore, I have taken the time to read other books that are easier to read.

Take care and hope you are able to get some help.

Michael

 

[momus]

Habituation makes me think we've somehow gotten used to our tinnitus or something similar. In my case, and I suspect in the case of others as well, the level and quality of tinnitus fluctuate on their own. This variability makes it difficult, if not impossible, to determine why it changes. It simply does. For instance, if my tinnitus happens to be barely audible and I travel by airplane, it will come roaring back. But that's a typical response for that situation.

 

[Former newyorker]

Thank you, @Michael Leigh. I will read your articles.

 

[Michael Leigh]

Thank you, @Michael Leigh. I will read your articles.

You are welcome Mary.

It is a lot to read. I suggest that you print the articles, and then take your time to read them.

All the best,
Michael