Pulsatile Tinnitus Spike After Hairdryer Exposure at Hairdresser

[Morcroft]

Hi, I'm 74 years old and have had pulsatile tinnitus for 10 months now. I was given a hearing aid by the NHS, which helped me a lot. I felt I had come to terms with the tinnitus and had even begun to forget about it.

I always wore headphones at the hairdresser and at home when drying my hair. This last time, though, I just used wax earplugs. As soon as I left, the tinnitus started up much louder than usual, and I've been very upset and panicky since. I feel it will never return to its usual state.

It's been four days now, but it feels like a lifetime, and I really don't know how to cope anymore. Has anyone had a similar experience?

 

[alwaysmasking]

Spikes can last for quite a while. When you are in the middle of one, it is hard to believe that relief is possible, but very often it is. It just takes time. Please protect your hearing moving forward, and try to live your life as fully as you can, while staying mindful of possible triggers.

 

[henkess]

Yes, I think it's just a spike. I also have pulsating tinnitus and TTS. After something like that, it usually gets better for me within a few weeks, at least.