Auditory sensations, such as hissing, buzzing, or ringing, are prevalent issues among the senior demographic. This condition, clinically known as tinnitus, often results in significant confusion and emotional distress for older adults. While tinnitus is more prevalent in later life, not all cases in seniors are simply an inevitable part of aging, and recognizing the difference is important.
Tinnitus can interrupt and compromise your quality of life, and you don’t have to simply accept it as a requirement of the aging process. Today, we’re taking a look at what’s age-related, what isn’t, and what you can do if you have tinnitus.
Defining Tinnitus: The Basics
In basic language, tinnitus is the personal experience of noise that no one else can hear. Although ringing and buzzing are the primary descriptions, the sound can also present as hissing, roaring, or static. Whether it is a continuous noise or one that comes and goes, tinnitus can range from a mild annoyance to a severe disruption.
According to the National Library of Medicine, in a general elderly population:
- Tinnitus is experienced by about 20% of older adults.
- 1 in 10 of those affected find that tinnitus impacts their day-to-day activities.
- There is a strong correlation 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. 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.
When Tinnitus Is Age-Related
One of the most common causes of tinnitus in older adults is age-related hearing loss, clinically referred to as presbycusis.
In these cases, tinnitus often:
- Develops gradually over time.
- Occurs alongside hearing loss.
- Is frequently characterized as high-frequency ringing or electronic noise.
- Becomes more noticeable in quiet environments.
When Tinnitus Is Not Just About Aging
Aging isn’t always the sole factor, as many older individuals experience tinnitus due to external influences, such as:
- Noise exposure earlier in life, including military service, factory work, or loud concerts.
- The use of pharmaceuticals, including high-dose aspirin or intensive antibiotics.
- Blood flow problems, including high blood pressure, that affect the ears.
- Simple earwax blockage, which is a frequent cause of ringing.
Why Tinnitus Shouldn’t Be Dismissed
Yet, it is important to realize that long-term tinnitus takes a toll on:
- The overall restfulness of your nightly sleep.
- Concentration and memory.
- Your emotional stability and your overall level of stress.
- The general enjoyment you find in daily life.
What You Can Do
- Utilizing hearing aids to provide the brain with increased auditory input and lessen tinnitus focus.
- Sound therapy or white noise devices.
- Working with a physician to adjust prescriptions that may be causing the noise.
- Adopting new habits that focus on stress reduction and better sleeping patterns.
Call our team now to set up a consultation and begin your path toward relief. We are prepared to provide the assistance you need.