What not to do when you have tinnitus?

What not to do when you have tinnitus? I’ve had tinnitus for many years maybe 10 years or so. It was only a muffled ringing in the background and I never really paid any attention to it. But the last year I was very stressed and unhappy. It seems from the last year only my tinnitus has grown louder and I just hate it. I really want it to go away completely. What can I do to lessen its effects?


View Reddit by Akanksha1992 – View Source

What not to do when you have tinnitus?

When dealing with tinnitus, there are certain actions you should avoid to prevent exacerbating the symptoms and improve your overall well-being:

Related Post
  1. Avoid Silence:
    • While it might seem counterintuitive, complete silence can make tinnitus more noticeable. Use background noise (such as a fan, white noise machine, or calming music) to mask the ringing or buzzing sounds.
  2. Limit Exposure to Loud Noises:
    • Protect your ears from loud environments, concerts, or noisy machinery. Use earplugs or earmuffs when necessary.
    • Avoid prolonged exposure to loud music through headphones or earbuds.
  3. Be Cautious with Medications:
    • Some medications can worsen tinnitus. Consult your doctor before taking any new medications.
    • Common culprits include aspirin, certain antibiotics, and diuretics.
  4. Reduce Stress and Anxiety:
    • High stress levels can intensify tinnitus. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
    • Regular exercise can also help manage stress.
  5. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol Intake:
    • Both caffeine and alcohol can affect blood flow and potentially worsen tinnitus.
    • Moderation is key.
  6. Avoid Smoking:
    • Smoking can harm blood vessels and impact circulation, which may contribute to tinnitus.
    • Quitting smoking is beneficial for overall health.
  7. Watch Your Salt Intake:
    • Excessive salt can affect blood pressure and fluid retention, potentially affecting tinnitus.
    • Reduce salt consumption where possible.
  8. Stay Hydrated:
    • Proper hydration supports overall health, including ear function.
    • Drink enough water throughout the day.
  9. Don’t Obsess Over It:
    • Constantly focusing on tinnitus can make it more distressing.
    • Distract yourself with activities you enjoy.
  10. Avoid Excessive Ear Cleaning:
    • Aggressive cleaning can lead to earwax buildup or damage.
    • Gently clean your ears without pushing wax deeper.

Remember, everyone’s experience with tinnitus is unique. If you have concerns or need personalized advice, consult a healthcare professional .