Yes, tinnitus can worsen over time if the underlying causes are left untreated. Many factors can contribute to the worsening of symptoms, making it essential to address tinnitus early. Below are the key reasons why tinnitus can deteriorate and the importance of seeking proper care.
How Tinnitus Can Worsen Without Treatment
Exposure to Loud Noises:
Frequent exposure to loud sounds—like concerts, power tools, or loud music through headphones—can worsen tinnitus. Taking steps to protect your hearing, such as using ear protection, can help prevent further inner ear damage and reduce the risk of symptoms becoming more severe over time.
Hearing Loss Progression:
Tinnitus is often associated with hearing loss. As hearing diminishes, the brain may try to compensate by amplifying internal sounds, leading to an increase in tinnitus intensity. Without treating the underlying hearing issues, symptoms may become more persistent and disruptive.
Chronic Stress and Anxiety:
Untreated stress and anxiety can make tinnitus worse. Stress amplifies the perception of tinnitus, and, in turn, the constant noise from tinnitus increases stress levels. This cycle can lead to emotional exhaustion and make it harder for individuals to cope with everyday activities.
Sleep Disturbances:
Tinnitus often disrupts sleep, leaving individuals fatigued, irritable, and less able to concentrate. Sleep deprivation not only affects general well-being but also heightens sensitivity to tinnitus, making symptoms more difficult to ignore.
Caffeine, Nicotine, and Alcohol Use:
Substances like caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms. These stimulants affect blood flow and the nervous system, potentially increasing the volume or intensity of tinnitus sounds. Reducing or eliminating these substances can help alleviate symptoms.
Ear Infections or Wax Buildup:
Physical issues such as ear infections or earwax buildup can block normal sound pathways, making tinnitus more noticeable. Without addressing these problems, tinnitus may worsen over time. Regular ear check-ups can prevent these complications.
Medical Conditions and Medication Side Effects:
Certain medical conditions, including high blood pressure and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, can worsen tinnitus if not properly managed. Additionally, some medications are known to have ototoxic effects that can increase tinnitus. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help identify and address these contributing factors.
The Importance of Treatment
Hearing Aids and Sound Therapy:
For individuals with hearing loss, hearing aids can provide significant relief by restoring auditory input to the brain, which may reduce the perception of tinnitus. Sound therapy devices that generate white noise or nature sounds are also effective tools to mask tinnitus, offering peace during quiet moments.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
CBT can help change the emotional response to tinnitus, reducing its psychological impact. Through therapy, individuals learn effective strategies for managing the stress and anxiety associated with tinnitus, which can significantly improve their quality of life.
Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT):
TRT combines sound therapy with counseling, helping the brain adjust to tinnitus over time. This process, known as habituation, teaches the brain to treat tinnitus as a neutral background noise, making it less noticeable.
Lifestyle Changes:
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can also make a difference. Reducing the intake of caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine can lessen tinnitus intensity. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises, can further help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
Our Tinnitus Specialists
We have two specialists on staff, Candice Holden (BC-HIS) and Kerry Holden (BC-HIS). Each has over 10 years of experience with both holding Tinnitus Care Provider Certificate from the International Hearing Society. Both Candice and Kerry, plus Rita have received additional product training from the manufacturer Widex on their Zen Therapy product line to better serve you. Rita is also a Board Certified Hearing Instrument specialist with over 10 years experience and has years of experience treating hearing loss and tinnitus her in Winnipeg.
Tinnitus Treatment - What To Do Next
Although tinnitus isn't life-threatening, it can greatly affect your quality of life if ignored. Persistent symptoms may lead to chronic stress, disrupted sleep, social withdrawal, and emotional fatigue. Taking action early—whether through medical treatment, therapy, or lifestyle adjustments—can prevent symptoms from escalating and improve your daily well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing tinnitus, consulting with an audiologist or healthcare provider is essential for finding relief. Call us at (204) 788-1083 to schedule a comprehensive hearing evaluation and discover effective ways to manage your tinnitus before it progresses.
