Sensitivity of Tinnitus to Everyday Sounds

I came out of a rock concert in 1979 with low level tinnitus. It remained at the same low level until 2013 when it started to intensify on a permanent basis to louder everyday sounds and then over the last 6 years to many everyday sounds.

For example dog barks, laughter, sounds in the kitchen such as pots and pans etc.

During this period the tinnitus has become more and more uncomfortable and harder to handle. To try to slow down the deterioration I have protected my ears more and more, using ear plugs and Bose noise cancelling headsets. Even these measures are not full proof and my tinnitus continues to worsen.

I am at my wits' end to know what to do and I would welcome any positive comments. Thanks in anticipation.

 

@AJS

None of this protection is foolproof. It is a challenge to walk the middle ground, and avoid underprotection and overprotection. While some do ok with them, some people have issues with the noise cancelling headphones making the tinnitus worse as they emit a canceling waves. Would be worth a try to use some passive earmuffs, and see if that makes any difference.

Do you have hearing loss? As you get older, there may be some hearing loss from aging, and that may be exacerbating the noise induced portion. In some cases, hearing aids have helped some folks in that situation.

 

Welcome to the forum. Have you ever seen doctors/ENTs about your ears? Make sure there are no underlying problems in the ears first. It is also possible you suffer hyperacusis. Do you have ear pains? You may also want to post your condition in the hyperacusis support forum and others with similar conditions can advise you. Take good care. God bless.

 

Digital Doc - I have been wearing hearing aids since I was 36 (I`m now 61) - however I have them programmed at a much lower level than my hearing loss requires. I have been thinking of giving the passive muffs a try so thanks for this suggestion.
Billie48 - I have seen a number of ENT specialists over the years. Thanks for your reply and as a Christian I say God bless to you too!