Expert Tips for Coping With Tinnitus

Video: Dr. Adam Rosenbluth Offers Valuable Information on How to Handle Earwax Buildup. AARP Studios Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Doctor, what I can do about this annoying ringing in my ears?

I’m working with a patient now who is dealing with tinnitus; a condition that's also called ringing in the ears. He hears ringing sounds that interrupt his daytime activities and keeps him

wide awake at night. Honestly, it has been driving him crazy. If you have this problem too, you know what he’s going through. You might also be hearing buzzing, hissing, whistling, humming,

even sizzling, yet there’s no outside source making these irritating sounds.

Tinnitus is a common condition among older Americans. It's estimated that one in five people over the age of 50 is dealing with this issue. One likely cause is age-related hearing loss.

Other tinnitus triggers include frequent exposure to loud noises, the buildup of earwax, and certain common medications such as high blood pressure drugs, antidepressants and antibiotics.

Health conditions like diabetes, hypertension and heart disease can also be a factor. But the most frequent reason among my patients is damage that was caused by an ear infection from viral

illnesses such as COVID or the flu.

First and foremost, if you think you’re experiencing tinnitus, you need a doctor ASAP to confirm what’s going on. It’s a good idea to make an appointment with a type of specialist called an

otolaryngologist. The sooner your condition is treated, the less likely there will be intensive damage.

Adam B. Rosenbluth, M.D., is an internist and cardiologist in New York City. Each Monday, he’ll weigh in on your questions about how to make your body work better for you. His AARP book will

be published in 2027. Join in on the conversation on social media @dradamrosenbluth to learn to move the needle on your personal health in an achievable way.

Email your questions for Dr. Adam to dradam@aarp.org

Still, a tinnitus diagnosis can be disappointing news because there is no cure. There are, however, treatments your doctor can suggest that may help make your symptoms less severe. Finding

the most effective approach is often a matter of trial and error.

When people have this condition, it’s usually most disturbing at night because that’s when the room is quiet, and the ringing grabs their full attention. Sleep disturbances caused by

tinnitus can lead to other health problems. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of a good night’s sleep. Without it, your physical health, including your immune system and your heart, as

well as your mental wellbeing and cognitive abilities, can be negatively affected.