Slipped on Black Ice — Mild Concussion and Two Weeks Later Tinnitus

Hey everyone. I've been a long time viewer but just joined. Looking for support during all the trials I am going through.

I had my first major anxiety attack yesterday at work. My tinnitus started while working, when I fell on some black ice, hit my head and was diagnosed with a mild concussion.

I have the Phonak hearing aids to help mask the ringing.

I have had a really hard time adjusting - I know it's been almost 3 years. Does it get easier? I guess it depends on the person and how they deal with it.

Anyways, hi Everyone...

 

Welcome to the forum. Yes, it gets easier if we try to accept the new normal and not get too anxious or stressful as these are bad for tinnitus.

Masking is a good idea if the ringing bothers you too much.

It is helpful to get active like pursuing some new hobbies to distract from paying attention to the tinnitus.

Take care. God bless.

 

@billie48, does distraction work even for reactive tinnitus and distorted hearing? I can’t mask mine.

 

Welcome to the Forum
My tinnitus started much the same way as yours, knocked for a 6 (that's meters) unconscious for over ten minutes and woke to ringing in my head.

I have found that keeping busy, having a positive attitude and being kind to myself help . The audiologist advised me not to listen to the tinnitus as this will reinforce the auditory pathways in the brain. Like an annoying child that gets in your face (I have four), if you pay it more attention it becomes more persistent. Initially I struggled to follow his advice, however as the years have progressed it has dulled down to a background hissing noise. Night time can be tough, I take Melatonin just to assist

You'll have noticed that everyone has absolutely unique experiences dealing with the tinnitus and you will too, however we're all here to support each other