As individuals age, they frequently report experiencing sounds like humming, hissing, buzzing, or ringing in the ear canal. This condition, clinically known as tinnitus, often results in considerable confusion and emotional distress for older adults. While tinnitus is more common in later life, not all cases in older adults are simply an inevitable part of aging, and recognizing the difference is essential.
The perception of tinnitus often diminishes a person’s standard of living, but it is a misconception to assume there are no options for management. This guide covers how to distinguish age-linked tinnitus from other factors and details the next steps for those seeking support.
Defining Tinnitus: The Basics
In simplest terms, tinnitus is the personal experience of sound that no one else can hear. Commonly, patients report ringing or buzzing, but some people experience roaring, clicking, or hissing sounds. The severity varies from a slight irritation to a major disruption, and it may be felt in a single ear or both.
The National Library of Medicine reports the following statistics regarding the senior population:
- Tinnitus is present in about 20% of older adults.
- Daily life is compromised for 10% of older people suffering from tinnitus.
- The data indicates that individuals with hearing loss face a twofold increase in the risk of developing tinnitus.
If it’s loud or doesn’t let up, tinnitus can lead to fatigue, depression, anxiety, and mental and emotional anguish. Luckily, there is support available. We will start by examining the distinctions between tinnitus caused by the aging process and other triggers.
Identifying Tinnitus Triggered by Aging
Presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, remains a primary driver of tinnitus in the senior population.
In these cases, tinnitus often:
- Manifests as a progressive onset.
- Occurs in conjunction with hearing loss.
- Sounds like high-pitched ringing or static.
- Frequently feels more intrusive in a quiet room.
Non-Age-Related Causes
Aging isn’t always the sole factor, as many seniors experience tinnitus due to external influences, such as:
- Occupational or recreational noise damage sustained during younger years.
- Side effects from certain antibiotics, aspirin, or chemotherapy.
- Vascular conditions, such as high blood pressure.
- Simple earwax blockage, which is a common and treatable cause of ringing.
Why Tinnitus Must Not Be Dismissed
However, ongoing tinnitus can impact:
- The overall restfulness of your evening rest.
- Concentration and memory.
- Overall mood balance and the potential for increased anxiety.
- The general enjoyment you find in daily life.
What You Can Do
- Hearing aids, which often reduce tinnitus by enhancing sound input.
- Using sound therapy programs designed to habituate the brain to the noise.
- Evaluating and modifying current medications if they are found to be harmful to hearing.
- Lifestyle changes to lower stress and enhance sleep.
Contact our staff of professionals now to make an appointment. We are prepared to provide the assistance you need.