Tinnitus Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What causes ringing in the ears?
If you hear constant ringing, whistling, hissing or other sounds that never seem to go away, you could be suffering from a condition called tinnitus.
What causes tinnitus?
The onset of tinnitus is often related to exposure to loud sounds, which can cause damage to the sensory cells of the inner ear. It has also been associated with excessive ear wax, ear infections, high blood pressure, the aging process and sensory nerve disorders. Alcohol, caffeine, smoking, and some medications, such as aspirin and bismuth subsalicylates, can also cause or worsen your tinnitus.
What is tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the name for the perception of sounds, such as ringing, buzzing or hissing, when these sounds are not present in the environment. If you have tinnitus, you are not alone. Many people in the United States experience tinnitus and seek medical advice about it every year.
Is there a cure for tinnitus?
There is no known cure for tinnitus, but there are effective ways to reduce or even eliminate the symptoms. Here are some helpful tips:
- Wear hearing protection if you’ll be around loud noises such as motorcycles or power equipment
- Maintain healthy blood pressure
- Watch your diet and reduce your intake of salt, coffee and caffeine products, tobacco, aspirin, pink antacids and alcohol (especially red wine)
- Monitor your stress levels
- Make time for rest, relaxation and moderate exercise
- Use white noise when trying to sleep
Beltone offers a free app - Tinnitus Calmer app – that works on Apple and Android devices and connects directly to your hearing aids. The app features a variety of soothing sounds and interactive experiences that help to reduce stress and relieve tinnitus.
Is tinnitus permanent?
There aren’t any known cures for tinnitus. However, there are different types of therapies that can reduce the symptoms. One such option is sound therapy. Sound therapy introduces new sounds that help blend the tinnitus into the background. You can try sound therapy by downloading our free Tinnitus Calmer app.
What is sound therapy?
Sound therapy introduces new sounds that help blend tinnitus into the background. You can try sound therapy by downloading our free Tinnitus Calmer app.
How many people have tinnitus?
Tens of millions of Americans report experiencing the symptoms of tinnitus on a regular basis.
Does tinnitus cause hearing loss?
Most people with tinnitus also experience some level of hearing loss. The use of a hearing aid often helps to cover up tinnitus symptoms and cause them to be significantly less distracting.
Online Hearing Assessment
Not sure if you hearing loss? Click the link below to try our free online assessment.
Connect With a Beltone Professional
Schedule a free hearing screening with a Beltone hearing care professional to explore your options and discover the hearing aid that’s a perfect fit for you.