Ringing, buzzing, hissing, or humming in the ears is a frequent issue as people get older. Known medically as tinnitus, these internal noises can be a source of discomfort and stress for many aging adults. While advancing in years often triggers tinnitus, it must not be viewed as an inevitable byproduct of aging.

You do not have to resignedly accept tinnitus as a normal part of the aging experience, especially when it interferes with your mental health. 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: What You Need to Know

In basic language, tinnitus is the personal experience of sound that no one else can hear. Individuals often describe the sound as a high-pitched ring, though buzzing, static, or humming are also common. Whether it is a steady noise or one that is intermittent, tinnitus can range from a mild annoyance to a debilitating condition.

The National Library of Medicine reports the following statistics regarding the senior population:

• 1 in 5 people has tinnitus.
• Daily life is compromised for one out of every ten seniors suffering from tinnitus.
• The data indicates that people with hearing impairment face a twofold increase in the risk of developing tinnitus.

Persistent or high-volume tinnitus often contributes to significant emotional distress, including anxiety, exhaustion, 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

One of the most common causes of tinnitus in seniors is age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis.

Common characteristics of age-linked tinnitus include:

• Emerges gradually as the auditory system changes.
• Occurs in conjunction with hearing loss.
• Sounds like high-pitched ringing or static.
• Becomes more noticeable in quiet environments.

When Tinnitus Is Not Just About Aging

While age-related changes play a role, many cases of tinnitus in older adults are linked to other triggers, including:

• Occupational or recreational noise damage acquired during younger years.
• Side effects from certain antibiotics, aspirin, or chemotherapy.
• Blood flow problems, including high blood pressure, that affect the ears.
• An excess of earwax, a problem occurring more frequently with advancing age.

The Impact of Ongoing Tinnitus

However, ongoing tinnitus can affect:

• The overall restfulness of your nightly sleep.
• Your daily focus and the ability to recall important information.
• Psychological well-being and your overall level of stress.
• Overall quality of life.

What You Can Do

• The use of hearing aids, which can mask the ringing by improving environmental sounds.
• Employing sound machines or ambient sound to help mask the internal noises.
• Evaluating and modifying current medications if they are found to be ototoxic.
• Lifestyle adjustments to reduce stress and enhance sleep.

Contact our staff of professionals today to make an appointment. We are ready to provide the assistance you need.