Auditory sensations, such as hissing, buzzing, or ringing, are prevalent issues among the aging population. Known clinically as tinnitus, these internal noises can be a source of discomfort and stress for many elderly individuals. While getting older often brings about tinnitus, it shouldn’t always be dismissed as an inevitable consequence of aging.
The presence of tinnitus often lowers a person’s standard of living, but it is a mistake to assume there are no available paths for management. This guide covers how to differentiate age-linked tinnitus from other factors and details the next steps for those seeking support.
Understanding Tinnitus
Tinnitus manifests when a person perceives internal sounds that do not originate from their environment. Although ringing and buzzing are the most frequent descriptions, the sound can also present as roaring, whistling, or clicking. Whether it is a steady noise or one that comes and goes, tinnitus can range from a mild annoyance to a severe disruption.
According to the National Library of Medicine, in a general elderly population:
- Approximately twenty percent of seniors have tinnitus.
- For 1 in 10, tinnitus interferes with daily life.
- Participants with hearing loss faced double the risk of tinnitus.
Persistent or high-volume tinnitus often contributes to significant emotional distress, including anxiety, exhaustion, and depression. Luckily, there is support available. But first, let’s examine the difference between age-related and non-age-related tinnitus.
When Tinnitus Is Age-Related
Presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, stands as a primary cause of tinnitus in the senior population.
Common characteristics of age-linked tinnitus include:
- Develops gradually over time.
- Is experienced together with age-related hearing loss.
- Sounds like sharp whistling or static.
- Is easier to detect when the surroundings are silent.
Non-Age-Related Triggers
Aging isn’t always the sole factor, as many older individuals experience tinnitus due to external influences, such as:
- Past exposure with intense sound from military service or factory environments.
- The use of specific drugs, including high-dose aspirin or intensive antibiotics.
- Circulatory health issues, such as hypertension or other vascular disorders.
- Simple earwax blockage, which is a frequent cause of ear noise.
Why Tinnitus Must Not Be Dismissed
Yet, it is important to realize that long-term tinnitus takes a toll on:
- Sleep quality.
- Your mental clarity and the ability to recall important information.
- Overall emotional stability and the likelihood of increased anxiety.
- Your standard of life and social activities.
What You Can Do
- Wearing hearing aids to provide the brain with increased auditory input and lessen tinnitus focus.
- Utilizing sound machines or white noise to help mask the internal noises.
- Medication adjustments (where appropriate).
- Adopting new habits that focus on stress reduction and better sleep patterns.
Call our team now to arrange a consultation and start your journey toward relief. We’re ready to help.