Ringing, buzzing, hissing, or humming in the ears is a frequent issue as individuals reach later life. These sounds, referred to as tinnitus, can trigger distress and confusion for many older patients. Even though age is a primary factor, distinguishing between age-induced tinnitus and other underlying causes is essential for effective care.
Tinnitus can interrupt and compromise your quality of life, and you should not feel forced to accept it as a part of growing older. Today, we’re taking a look at what’s age-related, what isn’t, and what you can do if you have tinnitus.
Understanding Tinnitus
The clinical description of tinnitus is hearing sound when there is no environmental source. Individuals often characterize the sound as a ringing noise, though buzzing, static, or humming are also common. It can be constant or intermittent, affect one or both ears, and range from a minor nuisance to a debilitating issue.
Research cited by the National Library of Medicine reveals important trends among seniors:
- One out of every five seniors is affected by tinnitus symptoms.
- Ten percent of those affected find that tinnitus impacts their day-to-day activities.
- The data shows that individuals with hearing loss face an increased likelihood of developing tinnitus.
If it’s loud or doesn’t let up, tinnitus can lead to fatigue, depression, anxiety, and mental and emotional anguish. Fortunately, there are many resources and treatments accessible to those who suffer. But first, let’s dive into the difference between age-related and non-age-related tinnitus.
When Tinnitus Is Age-Related
One of the primary drivers of tinnitus in seniors is age-related hearing loss, clinically referred to as presbycusis.
In these cases, tinnitus often:
- Emerges gradually as the auditory pathway changes.
- Presents simultaneously with a decline in hearing ability.
- Sounds like high-pitched ringing or static.
- Frequently feels more intrusive in a quiet room.
When Tinnitus Is Not Just About Aging
It is important to look beyond age, as many instances of tinnitus are caused by manageable medical or environmental factors, like:
- Occupational or recreational noise damage sustained during youth.
- Side effects from chemotherapy drugs, aspirin, or specific antibiotics.
- Blood flow problems, including hypertension, that affect the ears.
- Simple earwax blockage, which is a common and treatable cause of ear noise.
Why Tinnitus Must Not Be Dismissed
Yet, it is essential to realize that long-term tinnitus takes a toll on:
- Sleep quality.
- Mental capacity such as memory retention and daily attention.
- Mood and anxiety levels.
- Overall quality of life.
Addressing Tinnitus: Steps for Seniors
- Hearing aids, which often reduce tinnitus by enhancing sound input.
- Utilizing sound machines or white noise to help mask the internal sounds.
- Modifying prescriptions (where appropriate).
- Adopting new habits that focus on relaxation and better sleep patterns.
Contact our team of professionals today to make an appointment. Our team is dedicated to supporting your hearing health.