Many seniors notice persistent buzzing or ringing sounds that don’t have an external source. Known clinically as tinnitus, these internal noises can be a source of frustration and anxiety for many elderly individuals. Although the frequency of tinnitus increases with advancing age, it is vital to understand that not every instance is a standard consequence of the aging process.
You should never simply tolerate tinnitus as a standard part of the aging experience, especially when it impacts your mental health. In this guide, we will explore the distinctions between age-related and non-age-related triggers, along with actionable steps for managing tinnitus.
What Is Tinnitus?
In simplest terms, tinnitus is the personal experience of sound that no one else can hear. While many characterize the sensation as a ringing or whistling sensation, others may hear roaring, static, or clicking noises. The severity varies from a slight irritation to a significant impairment, and it may be perceived in a single ear or both.
According to the National Library of Medicine, in a general elderly population:
- One out of every five seniors is affected by tinnitus symptoms.
- Daily life is affected for one out of every ten seniors living with tinnitus.
- There is a clear link showing that those with hearing loss have a twofold increase in the risk of tinnitus reports.
When the noise is intrusive or constant, it can result in mental health challenges such as fatigue and severe anxiety. Fortunately, there are many resources and treatments accessible to those who suffer. To begin, let’s explore how to tell if your tinnitus is strictly related to getting older.
When Tinnitus Is Age-Related
One of the primary drivers of tinnitus in older adults is age-related hearing loss, clinically referred to as presbycusis.
When aging is the primary cause, the tinnitus typically:
- Develops slowly over time.
- Occurs in conjunction with hearing loss.
- Takes the form of persistent static.
- Frequently feels more intrusive in a quiet room.
Non-Age-Related Triggers
While age-related changes play a role, many cases of tinnitus in older adults are linked to other triggers, including:
- Occupational or recreational noise damage acquired during youth.
- Ototoxic medications, such as high doses of common medicines.
- Vascular conditions, including high blood pressure.
- An accumulation of earwax, a problem occurring more frequently with seniors.
The Effect of Ongoing Tinnitus
However, ongoing tinnitus can affect:
- Sleep hygiene.
- Your mental clarity and the ability to recall important information.
- Overall mood balance and the possibility of increased anxiety.
- Overall quality of life.
What You Can Do
- The use of hearing aids, which can mask the ringing by improving environmental sounds.
- Using sound therapy tools designed to train the brain to the noise.
- Evaluating and adjusting current pharmaceuticals if they are found to be ototoxic.
- Lifestyle changes to reduce stress and improve sleep.
Call our team today to set up a consultation and begin your journey toward relief. We are ready to provide the assistance you need.