Tinnitus After Ear Popping, Looking for Reassurance and Understanding

[bex1977]

Hi, I'm Becca, and I'm 48 years old. I've had tinnitus for 4 weeks now.

About 3 months ago, I felt a pop in my ear. My hearing in that ear became muffled, but within 3 to 4 hours it disappeared, and I thought nothing of it. Then, about 4.5 weeks ago, my ear popped again, my hearing became muffled, and again everything returned to normal within about an hour. Then, 2 to 3 days after that, I noticed the ringing.

I went to the doctor, who referred me to ENT. I had an audiology appointment, and the audiologist said my high-frequency hearing was slightly lower than it should be for my age, but everything else was normal. The consultant said the tinnitus could have started because the ear popping made my ear more vulnerable, which may have caused the tinnitus, and that it may still go away. There were no signs of inflammation or anything else concerning.

It feels like I've constantly been to a concert. In the weeks leading up to this, I was under a lot of stress at work, and I'm also dealing with neck and shoulder pain. Everything I read seems to say that this is it and that it's here for good, which I'm finding quite depressing.

I'm the kind of person who needs an answer for everything, and with this, I don't think I can find one. I'm trying to think positively, and I know that stressing only makes it seem louder. I guess I'm looking for reassurance from people who understand, as my family doesn't seem to see what the big deal is. I know there are much worse things to deal with. I'm just trying to adjust to my new normal.

 

[billie48]

Welcome to the support forum. Here, many of us have deep empathy and understand what you're going through, as a lot of members have been exactly where you are now, dealing with a new intrusive tinnitus. The initial struggling experience is very common among members here, myself included.

I struggled immensely at first, like most newcomers with severe tinnitus and, perhaps even hyperacusis. I had to rely on medication to survive relentless anxiety and panic attacks. I never believed I could recover, but today I live a normal, productive, and happy life. I travel often, go fishing, garden, play badminton, and even dance with my wife.

Good life can return. Please don't lose hope. It will take time and patience, but things will definitely improve. If stress has caused your tinnitus, then learn some relaxation techniques such as deep abdominal breathing, mindfulness meditation, or try leisurely exercises, or do some outdoor activities. If neck pain or neck muscles are causing it, you may try a neck massage or upper cervical treatment. If your tinnitus is a somatic type, then when the root cause is healed, the tinnitus should fade. Even if your tinnitus persists, accepting it and being willing to adapt to the new normal will help you towards habituation faster.

Take good care. Best wishes. God speed your recovery.