Find effective, medically approved solutions to relieve the annoying symptom of tinnitus. Improve your quality of life with medical options.

Ringing in the ears, also known as tinnitus, is a condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is characterized by a persistent noise or ringing in the ears, which can be very annoying and disrupt daily life. Fortunately, modern medicine offers several treatment options to effectively treat this condition. In this article, we will explore some common medical interventions used to relieve ringing in the ears and provide relief to people suffering from tinnitus.

1. Hearing Aids: Hearing aids are often recommended for people with hearing loss and tinnitus. These devices help amplify external sounds, which in turn can mask or distract from the internal ringing or buzzing that people with tinnitus experience. This not only improves overall hearing, but also reduces the perception of tinnitus, making it less noticeable and bothersome.
2. Tinnitus Reeducation Therapy (TRT): TRT is a form of therapy that combines counseling and sound therapy. It aims to help people get used to the sound of their tinnitus and ultimately reduce its impact on everyday life. During TRT, patients use a device that emits an individually tailored low-level noise, known as a sound generator. This sound helps distract from tinnitus, while counseling sessions provide strategies for coping with any associated distress.

Important: It is essential that people who experience ringing in the ears consult an otolaryngologist or audiologist to determine the cause and severity of their tinnitus. Only a qualified medical professional can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options tailored to the individual’s needs.

Medication for Ringing in Ears

1. Antidepressants: Certain antidepressant medications have been shown to be effective in controlling tinnitus symptoms. Although the exact mechanism of action is not known, these medications have been shown to help reduce the intensity of tinnitus. Among the most commonly prescribed antidepressants for tinnitus are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as sertraline, and tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline. It is important to note that these medications may take several weeks to show noticeable improvements, and may also have side effects that should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

1. Anti-anxiety medications: In some cases, tinnitus can be made worse by anxiety or stress. Anxiolytics, such as benzodiazepines, can help reduce the anxiety associated with tinnitus and potentially relieve symptoms. These medications act by calming the central nervous system and promoting relaxation. However, they should be used with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare professional due to their addictive potential and withdrawal symptoms.
   

   It is important to note that medication alone does not completely eliminate tinnitus, but it can help control symptoms and improve overall well-being.

2. Table: Medications for tinnitus
   

   Medicine	Class	How it works
   Sertraline	SSRI antidepressant	It increases serotonin levels in the brain, which can help reduce tinnitus symptoms.
   Amitriptyline	Tricyclic antidepressant	It alters the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, which can reduce the perception of tinnitus.
   Benzodiazepines	Anxiolytic medication	It calms the central nervous system, which can help reduce anxiety and stress related to tinnitus.

It is important to note that medication alone cannot completely eliminate tinnitus, but it can help control symptoms and improve overall well-being. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication for tinnitus, as they can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to the person’s specific needs.

Understanding Tinnitus and Its Causes

Possible causes:

1. Exposure to strong noise: prolonged exposure to strong noises, such as attending concerts, working in noisy environments or listening to music at full volume, can damage the delicate ciliated cells of the inner ear and cause tinnitus.
2. Audition loss related to age: As we age, the cells of our internal ear gradually deteriorate, which causes hearing loss and possibly tinnitus. This is known as presubiacusia and is a common cause of tinnitus in older people.
3. Obstruction bye: excessive accumulation of earwax can obstruct the auditory duct and cause tinnitus. Cleaning and regular maintenance of the earwax can help avoid it.
4. Diseases: certain underlying medical conditions, such as Meniere’s disease, temporomandibular articulation disorders (ATM), and high blood pressure, have been associated with tinnitus. The treatment of the underlying condition usually relieves the symptoms of tinnitus.

Tinnitus is not a condition in itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying problem. Identifying and treating the cause of tinnitus is crucial to control and reduce its impact on daily life.

The Role of Medication in Treating Tinnitus

1. Antidepressants: Antidepressant medications are frequently prescribed to people with tinnitus, especially those who also experience symptoms of depression or anxiety. These medications act by altering the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, helping to regulate mood and reduce emotional anguish associated with tinnitus. Among the most used antidepressants for the treatment of Tinnitus are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (ISRS) and tricyclic antidepressants (ATC). In addition, it has been discovered that certain antidepressants have a direct impact on the perception of tinnitus, potentially reducing the intensity and frequency of perceived sound.

Important note: It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting to take any antidepressant medication, since they can have potential side effects and interactions with other medications.

2. Gabapentinoides: Gabapentinoids, such as gabapentin and pregabalin, are antiepileptic drugs that have been promising in the treatment of tinnitus. These medications act by reducing neuronal excitability and modulating the release of neurotransmitters. Studies have suggested that gabapentinoids can help relieve tinnitus symptoms stabilizing neuronal hyperactivity, which is believed to contribute to the perception of tinnitus. Gabapentinoids are usually prescribed to people suffering from tinnitus along with other neurological conditions, such as neuropathic pain or fibromyalgia.

3. Ginkgo Biloba: The Ginkgo Biloba, a herbal supplement derived from the leaves of the Ginkgo Biloba tree, has been explored as a potential treatment option for tinnitus. Research suggests that Ginkgo Biloba can improve blood circulation and have antioxidant effects, thus reducing the severity of tinnitus symptoms. However, the effectiveness of Ginkgo Biloba in the treatment of Tinnitus remains the subject of debate, and more studies are needed to establish its true efficacy.

Common Medications Used for Managing Tinnitus

1. Antidepressants: They are often prescribed antidepressants to people with tinnitus, especially if the condition is accompanied by depression or anxiety. These medications can help improve mood and reduce emotional anguish associated with tinnitus. Some of the antidepressants that are usually prescribed are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRs), such as fluoxetine and serterarine.

• Fluoxetine (Prozac): This medicine belongs to the SSR class and is usually prescribed to people with tinnitus and depression. It acts by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can help improve mood and reduce depressive symptoms. However, it is important to keep in mind that the effectiveness of fluoxetine in the treatment of tinnitus varies from one person to another.
• Setraline (Zoloft) – Setraline, another SSRS usually used to treat tinnitus, can help relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety that usually accompany this condition. Like other antidepressants, it can take several weeks to start showing all its effects.

1. Anticonvulsive: Some people with tinnitus can benefit from taking anticonvulsant medications, which are mainly used to treat seizures, but can also be effective in reducing nerv e-related pain and excessive nerve shot that tinnitus can worsen. One of the anticonvulsants who are usually prescribed to treat tinnitus is gabapentin.

“Gabapentina (Neurontin): This anticonvulsive medicine has proven promising in the treatment of tinnitus symptoms. Acts reducing abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which can help relieve the sensation of buzzing in the ears. However, it isimportant to keep in mind that gabapentin can cause side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness. “

Exploring the Effectiveness of Traditional Medicines for Tinnitus

1. Plan t-based medications: Medicinal herbs have been widely used in traditional medicine systems, such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (MTC) and Ayurveda, to treat tinnitus symptoms. These medicinal herbs are usually based on plants with ant i-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to reduce inflammation of the ear and improve blood circulation in the auditory system. Some herbs commonly used for tinnitus include the Ginkgo biloba, the black cohosh and thorn berries.

2. Acupuncture: Another traditional practice used in the treatment of tinnitus is acupuncture. Originally from the MTC, acupuncture consists of the insertion of fine needles into specific body points to stimulate energy flow. The objective of this ancient therapy is to rebalance body energy and promote general wel l-being, which can relieve tinnitus symptoms. Acupuncture can be especially beneficial for people whose tinnitus are associated with underlying diseases or body imbalances.

Traditional medicines offer a holistic approach to tinnitus treatment by focusing on the underlying factors that contribute to its development. Although scientific research on the effectiveness of traditional medicines for tinnitus remains limited, anecdotal evidence and some preliminary studies suggest their potential benefits. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional or qualified practitioner before trying any traditional medicine or complementary therapy for tinnitus.

Research on Traditional Medicines for Tinnitus

Despite the lack of comprehensive scientific research, several studies have examined the effects of traditional medicines in the treatment of tinnitus:

1. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology investigated the potential effectiveness of ginkgo biloba extract in reducing tinnitus symptoms. The results indicated a significant improvement in subjective tinnitus symptoms in the treatment group compared to the control group.
2. A systematic review and meta-analysis by researchers examined the use of acupuncture for the treatment of tinnitus. The analysis suggested that acupuncture may provide short-term relief to tinnitus patients, although more high-quality studies are needed to establish its long-term effectiveness.

Medications That Can Worsen Tinnitus Symptoms

1. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, are commonly used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. However, these medications have been reported to increase tinnitus symptoms in some people. It is believed that NSAIDs can affect blood flow to the inner ear, causing amplification of tinnitus. Patients with tinnitus should consult with their doctor before taking NSAIDs to explore alternative pain relief options.

• Antidepressants: Some antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (ATC), have been associated with the aggravation of tinnitus. Although the exact mechanism is not clear, it is believed that these medications can alter the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, which can contribute to the worsening of tinnitus symptoms. Patients in antidepressant treatment should comment on the possible risks and benefits with their healthcare professional.
• Diuretics: diuretics, which are usually prescribed to treat diseases such as hypertension and heart failure, can also influence tinnitus symptoms. Diuretics increase urine production and reduce fluid accumulation in the body. However, the decrease in fluid volume can alter the balance of liquids and electrolytes in the inner ear, which can worsen the tinnitus. Patients who take diuretics should inform their doctor about their tinnitus to control any change in symptoms.
• Quinin e-based medications: quinine, mainly used to treat malaria, can negatively affect tinnitus symptoms. Although the exact mechanism is not fully known, it is believed that quinine can directly affect the auditory system, causing an increase in the intensity of tinnitus. Patients with Tinnitus should avoid the use of quinine medicines, unless the doctor specifically prescribes them for other conditions.

It is essential that people with Tinnitus inform their doctors about their illness to ensure that the chosen medication does not aggravate symptoms. It may be necessary to adjust the dose or change to alternative medications to effectively treat both underlying disease and tinnitus. Collaboration between patients and health professionals is key to determining the most appropriate treatment.

Alternative Treatments for Tinnitus: Are They Worth Considering?

One of these alternative treatments is acupuncture. Originally from the ancient Chinese medicine, acupuncture consists of the insertion of fine needles into specific points of the body to restore energy flow. Acupuncture defenders suggest that it can help reduce tinnitus symptoms favoring relaxation, improving blood circulation and stimulating the release of endorphins. Although scientific evidence that supports the effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of tinnitus are limited, some people report positive results after receiving acupuncture sessions.

Acupuncture can relieve some people with Tinnitus, but it is necessary to continue investigating to know their true efficacy.

Another alternative treatment that people with tinnitus usually consider is herbal supplementation. It is believed that certain herbs and plant extracts have properties that can relieve the symptoms of tinnitus. The Ginkgo Biloba, for example, is a popular remedy based on plants that is believed to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation of the internal ear. Other supplements, such as zinc, magnesium and vitamins of group B, are also often used to improve the general health of the ear. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of these herbal supplements is still a debate, and their use must be discussed with a health professional.

1. The Ginkgo Biloba is a plan t-based supplement that is usually used to relieve tinnitus symptoms.
2. It is believed that zinc, magnesium and vitamins of group B contribute to the health of the ear, although more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

Although alternative treatments offer potential benefits to control tinnitus, it is essential to address them with caution and consult with a healthcare professional. What can work for one person may not work for another, and the absence of scientific evidence must be taken into account. It is always advisable to inform yourself about any alternative treatment before trying and commenting on the options with a qualified health professional.

Consulting a Healthcare Professional for the Right Medication

During a consultation with a healthcare professional, you can expect a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and medical history. This evaluation will help determine the underlying cause of your tinnitus and guide your healthcare professional in selecting the most appropriate medication for your condition. It will collect information about the duration and intensity of the tinnitus, the symptoms that accompany it, and any previous treatments you have tried. This detailed information will allow them to make an accurate diagnosis and tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs.

Important information:

• Scheduling a consultation with a healthcare professional who specializes in ear and hearing health is crucial to finding the right tinnitus medication.
• During the consultation, a thorough evaluation of symptoms and medical history will be performed.
• Providing detailed information about the duration, intensity and any previous treatment of tinnitus is essential for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment.

Lifestyle Changes and Self-Care Tips to Help Alleviate Tinnitus Symptoms

1. Avoid exposure to loud noises: Prolonged or frequent exposure to loud sounds can worsen tinnitus symptoms. It is important to protect your ears by using earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments, such as concerts or construction sites. Additionally, reducing the volume of electronic devices, such as televisions or headphones, can also help control tinnitus.

I knew it? Exposure to excessively loud noises can cause damage to the hair cells in the inner ear, causing tinnitus.

2. 2. Control stress levels: Stress has been found to exacerbate tinnitus symptoms. Doing stress-reducing activities, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga, can help relieve the intensity of tinnitus. Additionally, finding healthy outlets for stress, such as taking up hobbies or getting regular physical exercise, can contribute to an overall sense of well-being and potentially reduce the impact of tinnitus.

3. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: practice physical exercise regularly, follow a balanced diet and sleep enough contribute to general wel l-being. If priority is given to a healthy lifestyle, the impact of tinnitus can be reduced on everyday life. Avoiding excessive consumption of alcohol, caffeine and nicotine can also be beneficial, since these substances can aggravate the symptoms of tinnitus.

• To remember: healthy elections lead to greater wel l-being and can help reduce tinnitus symptoms.
• Key point: give priority to sleep, nutrition and exercise, and minimize alcohol, caffeine and nicotine consumption.

LikeDislike

Author of the article

Dr.Greenblatt M.

Medical oncologist at the Robert Larner College of Medicine, MD, at the University of Vermont