Auditory sensations, such as ringing, humming, or static, are widespread complaints among the aging population. This condition, referred to as tinnitus, often leads to significant confusion and emotional distress for older adults. While tinnitus is more common in later life, not all cases in older adults are simply an inevitable part of aging, and understanding the difference is essential.
The presence of tinnitus often diminishes a person’s standard of living, but it is a misconception to believe there are no available paths for management. Today, we’re taking a look at what’s age-related, what isn’t, and available steps if you have tinnitus.
What Is Tinnitus?
In simplest terms, tinnitus is the subjective experience of noise that others cannot perceive. Although ringing and buzzing are the most frequent descriptions, the sound can also present as roaring, whistling, or clicking. The severity varies from a slight irritation to a major disruption, and it may be felt in a single ear or both.
Research cited by the National Library of Medicine reveals important trends among seniors:
- Approximately twenty percent of seniors have tinnitus.
- For ten percent of people, tinnitus disrupts daily life.
- There is a clear link showing that those with hearing loss have double the likelihood of tinnitus reports.
When the noise is intrusive or constant, it can result in mental health challenges such as fatigue and severe anxiety. The good news is that no one has to manage these symptoms without professional help. To begin, let’s explore how to tell if your tinnitus is strictly related to getting older.
Identifying Tinnitus Caused by Aging
One of the primary drivers of tinnitus in seniors is age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis.
In these cases, tinnitus often:
- Develops gradually over time.
- Presents at the same time as a decline in hearing ability.
- Takes the form of persistent static.
- Frequently feels more intrusive in a quiet room.
Non-Age-Related Triggers
It is vital to look beyond age, as many cases of tinnitus are caused by manageable medical or environmental factors, like:
- Occupational or recreational noise damage acquired during younger years.
- Side effects from chemotherapy drugs, aspirin, or specific antibiotics.
- Vascular conditions, such as high blood pressure.
- Simple earwax blockage, which is a common and treatable cause of ringing.
The Effect of Ongoing Tinnitus
However, ongoing tinnitus can affect:
- Sleep hygiene.
- Your mental clarity and recall of important information.
- Overall emotional stability and the likelihood of increased anxiety.
- Overall quality of life.
Addressing Tinnitus: Steps for Seniors
- Hearing aids, which often reduce tinnitus by improving sound input.
- Using sound therapy programs designed to train the brain to the noise.
- Reviewing and modifying current pharmaceuticals if they are found to be ototoxic.
- Adopting new habits that focus on relaxation and better sleep patterns.
Phone our team now to arrange a consultation and begin your journey toward relief. We’re here to help.