Lifelong Tinnitus Now Much Worse

[Lovetotravel76]

Hi everyone. I am a lifelong tinnitus sufferer and my condition has become much worse over the last few weeks. I am all consumed by the constant squeal in my head. I also have an underlying low hum in my left ear.

I am 40 years old and see an ENT Dr in February. I have had to delay my care due to insurance changes. I know they will do every test under the sun only to tell me they can't do anything to help me. I am trying relaxation and visualization and the feelings method I read about on here.

It is good to have a community I can count on for support. I am here for all of you as well.

 

[Bobby B]

What caused T - your hearing loss or lack of etc..
Why do you think it got worse ?

 

[MikeL1972]

Hi LovetoTravel,

Welcome to the site!

When you go to the ENT, by all means have him do a hearing test as well. If you have tinnitus as a result of hearing loss and cannot tolerate the noise, a hearing aid could help abate the ringing.

Last March, I too went to the ENT and after he checked my ears and sinuses and after he gave me the all clear, I pretty much knew I was "on my own". The audiologist noted I had hearing loss. I am not sure if that was due to the acoustic trauma that caused my tinnitus or just years of exposure to loud ambient noise/music. Anyway, good luck!

 

[Lovetotravel76]

Thank you all so much for your kind words. I am not sure why my tinnitus has gotten worse. The ENT specialist will be able to determine that hopefully. My tinnitus is worse at night. Can hearing aids be worn at night or are they strictly for daytime?

 

[Rubenslash]

Have you been taking any medication?

 

[billie48]

I am not sure why my tinnitus has gotten worse.

As far as the reason for the T increase, it can be many things. There are many causes which can trigger or aggravate tinnitus including by not limited to:

Drug reaction or side-effects from ototoxic drugs, ear or Eustachian tube infection, ear drum injury, fluid build-up feeling pressured, TMJ, TTTS, high blood pressure or blood circulation problem, loud noise exposure or acoustic trauma, head trauma & injury, neck problems, hearing loss, Meniere's, barotrauma from rapid change of atmospheric pressure, ear or head slapping, grief for the loss of loved ones, untreated sleep apnea, elevated stress, anxiety & panic disorder etc.

Sometimes, unhealthy diet such as too much salt, sugar, caffeine, MSG, alcohol etc. or lacking some mineral or vitamin supplements can worsen T.

 

[Lovetotravel76]

Have you been taking any medication?

I am trying Lipo Flavonoid Plus.

 

[Lovetotravel76]

I am at home now from my job at a store and I am always afraid of the quiet in my home. I can hear my tinnitus.