As individuals age, they regularly describe experiencing sounds like humming, hissing, buzzing, or ringing in their ears. For many seniors, the presence of tinnitus can interfere with their mental clarity and lead to significant distress. While tinnitus is more common with advancing age, not all cases in seniors are simply “age-related,” and understanding the difference is important.
You should never simply tolerate tinnitus as a standard part of the aging experience, especially when it interferes with your well-being. Today, we are examining what’s age-related, what isn’t, and available steps if you have tinnitus.
Understanding Tinnitus
Tinnitus manifests when a person hears internal sounds that do not originate from their environment. While many characterize the sensation as a ringing or whistling sensation, others may hear roaring, static, or clicking noises. The sensation can be localized in one or both ears, appearing either constantly or occasionally throughout the day.
According to the National Library of Medicine, in a general elderly population:
- Tinnitus is present in about 20% of older adults.
- Daily life is affected for 10% of older people suffering from tinnitus.
- Participants with hearing loss were twice as likely to have tinnitus.
The emotional toll of unceasing tinnitus can include profound anguish, sleep deprivation, and depression. Professional support and management strategies are available to help mitigate these effects. 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, stands as a primary cause of tinnitus in the senior population.
When aging is the primary cause, the tinnitus typically:
- Develops slowly over time.
- Presents at the same time as a decrease in hearing ability.
- Sounds like high-pitched ringing or static.
- Becomes more noticeable in quiet environments.
Non-Age-Related Triggers
While age-related changes are a factor, many cases of tinnitus in seniors are linked to other triggers, including:
- Past contact with intense sound from machinery or military environments.
- The use of pharmaceuticals, like certain antibiotics or specialized treatments.
- Heart-related health issues, such as high blood pressure or other vascular disorders.
- Earwax impaction, which is frequently seen in later life.
Why Tinnitus Must Not Be Dismissed
Yet, it is essential to realize that long-term tinnitus takes a toll on:
- The overall restfulness of your evening rest.
- Your mental clarity and the ability to recall important information.
- Overall emotional health.
- Your standard of life and social activities.
Managing Tinnitus: Steps for Seniors
- Hearing aids, which often reduce tinnitus by enhancing sound input.
- Utilizing sound machines or white noise to help mask the internal noises.
- Evaluating and modifying current pharmaceuticals if they are found to be harmful to hearing.
- Implementing new habits that focus on stress reduction and better sleeping patterns.
Reach out to our clinical staff today to arrange your comprehensive evaluation. Our staff is dedicated to supporting your auditory health.
