With tinnitus, it’s normal to have good and bad days but why? Tinnitus is the medical name for ringing in the ears, a condition more than 45 million Americans endure, according to the American Tinnitus Association, and that’s accompanied by hearing loss by around 90 percent of them.
But what’s tough to understand is why it’s almost non-existent on some days and on others the ringing is so intrusive. Some common triggers could explain it but it’s still unclear as to why this happens.
What Is Tinnitus?
The following phantom noises are heard by people who suffer from tinnitus:
- Ringing
- Hissing
- Roaring
- Clicking
- Buzzing
You hear it, the guy sitting next to you can’t, which is part of what makes tinnitus so disturbing. Also, the pitch and volume can vary. One day it might be a roar and the next day be gone completely.
What is The Cause of Tinnitus?
Alterations in a person’s hearing are the most common cause. These changes could be due to:
- Earwax build up
- Ear bone changes
- Aging
- Noise trauma
There are other likely causes, as well, such as:
- Acoustic neuroma
- Atherosclerosis
- An issue with the carotid artery or jugular vein
- Tumor in the neck or head
- Meniere’s disease
- TMJ issues
- High blood pressure
- Head trauma
Sometimes there is no obvious explanation for tinnitus.
Consult your doctor to have your ears checked if you suddenly notice the symptoms of tinnitus. The issue may be a symptom of a life threatening condition like heart disease or it might be something treatable. It may also be a side effect of a new medication.
Why Does the Ringing Get Worse on Some Days?
The reason why tinnitus gets worse on some days is somewhat of a medical mystery. The reason may be different for each person, too. However, there could be some common triggers.
Loud Events
Your tinnitus can be aggravated by loud events like concerts, club music, and fireworks. The best way to go is to put in hearing protection if you expect a lot of noise. You can enjoy the music at a concert, for instance, without hurting your ears by using earplugs.
You can also stay away from the source of the sound. For example, don’t stand next to the speakers at a concert or up front at a fireworks display. Combined with hearing protection, this could diminish the impact.
Loud Noises at Home
Loud noises in your home can also be a problem. For instance, mowing the lawn is enough to trigger tinnitus. Consider other things you do at home that might be an issue:
- Laundry – For example, if you fold clothes while the washer is running.
- Woodworking – The tools you use are enough to cause a problem
- Wearing headphones – The function of headphones is to raise the volume of your audio which could be aggravating your tinnitus so it could be time to lose those earbuds.
If you can’t stay away from loud noises at least put in hearing protection.
Noises at Work
Loud noises on the job have the same effect as a concert or the lawnmower. It’s particularly crucial to wear ear protection if you work in construction or are around machinery. Talk to your boss about your ear health; they will probably provide the ear protection you need. Spend your off time giving your ears a rest.
Changes in Air Pressure
When most people fly they experience ear popping. The change in air pressure combined with the noise from the plane engines can result in an increase in tinnitus. Think about hearing protection if you are traveling and bring some gum to neutralize the air pressure.
Changes in air pressure occur everywhere not just on a plane. Taking the right medication to relieve sinus pressure is also helpful.
Medication
Speaking of medication, that may also be the problem. Some drugs affect the ears and are known as ototoxic. Included on this list are these common medications:
- Diuretics
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Antibiotics
Have a talk with your doctor if you experience an intensifying of tinnitus after you start taking a new prescription. Changing to something else could be a possibility.
For some people tinnitus is not just aggravating it’s disabling. To be able to understand how to control it from day to day, step one is to figure out what’s causing it.