Tinnitus (cont.)

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What are tinnitus relief remedies?

Some common and easy remedies such as the following may be of benefit to some individuals.

  • Reducing or avoiding caffeine and salt intake, and quitting smoking may help relieve tinnitus symptoms.
  • Some tinnitus patients have been found to have lower zinc levels and may benefit from zinc supplementation.
  • One study showed melatonin may help tinnitus sufferers, particularly those with disturbed sleep due to the tinnitus. However, this is not yet been verified in controlled studies.
  • Ginkgo Biloba has been touted as a natural tinnitus remedy, but controlled studies to date have not shown it to be effective.
  • There are some behavioral and cognitive therapies that have been successful in treating tinnitus. Seeking out a multidisciplinary program at a tinnitus center may improve chances of successful treatment. The types of therapies include tinnitus retraining therapy, masking, and behavioral therapy.

Can tinnitus be prevented?

Do not place objects in your ear such as cotton swabs (Q-tips) to clean your ear. This can cause a wax impaction against your eardrum which can cause tinnitus. Take blood pressure medicines and other prescribed medications as they are ordered by your doctor.

According to the American Tinnitus Association there are several things you can do to protect yourself from excessive noise related tinnitus:

  • Protect your hearing at work. Your work place should follow Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. Wear ear plugs or earmuffs and follow hearing conservation guidelines set by your employer.
  • When around any noise that bothers your ears (a concert, sporting event, hunting) wear hearing protection or reduce noise levels.
  • Even everyday noises, such as blow drying your hair or using a lawnmower, can require protection. Keep ear plugs or earmuffs handy for these activities.

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