As individuals age, they regularly describe experiencing sounds like ringing, buzzing, or whistling in the ear canal. Known medically as tinnitus, these internal noises can be a catalyst for discomfort and stress for many elderly individuals. Even though age is a major factor, differentiating between age-induced tinnitus and alternative triggers is essential for effective care.
Tinnitus can disrupt and diminish your quality of life, and you don’t have to simply accept it as a requirement of growing older. In this discussion, we will examine the differences between age-related and non-age-related triggers, along with practical steps for managing tinnitus.
What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus occurs when a person perceives internal sounds that are not produced externally. Although ringing and buzzing are the primary descriptions, the sound can also manifest as roaring, whistling, or clicking. The intensity varies from a minor nuisance to a major disruption, and it may be perceived in a single ear or both.
According to the National Library of Medicine, in a general elderly population:
- About 20 percent of older individuals are affected by tinnitus symptoms.
- For ten percent of people, tinnitus disrupts daily life.
- Individuals with hearing loss faced double the risk of tinnitus.
If it’s loud or doesn’t let up, tinnitus can lead to fatigue, depression, anxiety, and mental and emotional anguish. The good news is that no one has to manage these symptoms without professional help. We will start by examining the distinctions between tinnitus caused by the aging process and other triggers.
Identifying Tinnitus Caused by Aging
One of the primary drivers of tinnitus in seniors is age-related hearing loss, clinically referred to as presbycusis.
In these cases, tinnitus often:
- Emerges slowly as the auditory system changes.
- Presents at the same time as a decline in hearing ability.
- Is frequently characterized as high-frequency ringing or static-like noise.
- Becomes more noticeable in quiet environments.
Non-Age-Related Causes
While age-related changes are a factor, many cases of tinnitus in seniors are linked to other factors, including:
- Noise damage earlier in life, including industrial labor, military duty, or music.
- Ototoxic drugs, which include certain specialized pharmaceuticals.
- Cardiovascular conditions, such as high blood pressure.
- An accumulation of earwax, a condition occurring regularly with advancing age.
The Effect of Untreated Tinnitus
However, ongoing tinnitus can impact:
- The ability to fall and stay asleep throughout the night.
- Your mental clarity and the ability to recall important information.
- Your emotional stability and your general level of anxiety.
- Overall quality of life.
Managing Tinnitus: Steps for Older Adults
- Utilizing hearing aids to provide the brain with increased auditory stimulation and reduce tinnitus focus.
- Employing sound machines or white noise to help cover the internal sounds.
- Working with a doctor to change prescriptions that may be causing the noise.
- Lifestyle changes to reduce stress and improve sleep.
Phone our team now to set up a consultation and start your path toward relief. Our staff is dedicated to supporting your hearing health.