Auditory phantom sounds like buzzing or ringing in the ears is a common concern as individuals reach later life. Known medically as tinnitus, these internal noises can be a catalyst for discomfort and stress for many elderly individuals. While advancing in years often brings about tinnitus, it shouldn’t always be dismissed as an inevitable consequence of aging.
Tinnitus can interrupt and compromise your quality of life, and you should not feel forced to accept it as a requirement of growing older. This guide covers how to distinguish age-linked tinnitus from other factors and details the next steps for those seeking support.
What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the perception of sound without an external source. While many describe it as a ringing or whistling sensation, others may hear roaring, static, or clicking noises. Whether it is a continuous noise or one that comes and goes, tinnitus can range from a slight irritation to a severe disruption.
According to the National Library of Medicine, in a general elderly population:
- About 20 percent of older individuals are affected by tinnitus symptoms.
- Daily life is compromised for one out of every ten seniors suffering from tinnitus.
- There is a strong correlation showing that those with hearing loss have a twofold increase in the risk of tinnitus prevalence.
The emotional toll of unceasing tinnitus can include profound anguish, sleep deprivation, and depression. The good news is that no one has to manage these symptoms without professional help. To begin, let’s explore how to tell if your tinnitus is strictly related to getting older.
When Tinnitus Is Age-Related
Presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, stands as a primary cause of tinnitus among the elderly.
In these cases, tinnitus often:
- Develops slowly over time.
- Occurs in conjunction with hearing loss.
- Sounds like high-pitched ringing or static.
- Is easier to detect when the surroundings are silent.
When Tinnitus Is Not Just About Aging
It is important to look beyond age, as many instances of tinnitus are caused by treatable medical or environmental factors, like:
- Occupational or social noise damage acquired during youth.
- Medications, such as certain antibiotics, aspirin, or chemotherapy.
- Blood flow problems, including high blood pressure, that affect the ears.
- An accumulation of earwax, a problem occurring regularly with advancing age.
The Impact of Untreated Tinnitus
However, ongoing tinnitus can affect:
- The overall restfulness of your evening rest.
- Mental capacity such as memory retention and sustained attention.
- Overall emotional stability and the potential for increased anxiety.
- Your total well-being and social activities.
What You Can Do
- Hearing aids, which frequently lessen tinnitus by improving sound input.
- Engaging in sound therapy tools designed to train the brain to the noise.
- Medication adjustments (when appropriate).
- Lifestyle adjustments to lower stress and improve sleep.
Contact our team of specialists today to make an appointment. We’re here to help.