Busting five common myths about tinnitus

Tinnitus can be not only painful, frustrating, and confusing, but it also makes daily life a challenge, often bringing feelings of anxiety and helplessness in the search for a solution.

What complicates things further is the number of myths surrounding tinnitus. Sufferers might be put off trying to get professional treatment, so we’ve compiled five of the most common myths about tinnitus that should be put to bed once and for all.

Myth 1: There is nothing you can do about tinnitus

While a lot of people might see their doctor with a complaint about ringing or buzzing in their ears they are sometimes told: “Tinnitus is just something you will have to deal with” or “Try to ignore it”.

While there’s no magical cure, there is a lot you can do to lessen the effects of the condition. You could seek counselling, wear ear protection, participate in tinnitus sound therapy and even wear a tinnitus management device.

Myth 2: Tinnitus is temporary; it will go away on its own

Some forms of tinnitus are indeed temporary, caused by recent exposure to loud noise. However, others are more long-lasting or consist of recurring episodes. Tinnitus affects people in many ways and there are several ‘sounds of tinnitus’ including: mild tinnitus, high-pitched tinnitus, low-frequency tinnitus and musical hallucinations.

Unfortunately, tinnitus just doesn’t ‘disappear’, which means the sooner you seek professional help the better your chances of significant improvement.

Myth 3: Tinnitus is a disease

Wrong! Tinnitus is a condition that has a broad range of causes such as the build-up of earwax, certain medications, otosclerosis, Ménière’s Disease or exposure to excessive noise. It’s certainly not infectious, though!

Myth 4: Tinnitus only affects those who have been exposed to loud noises

While exposure to loud music can be one cause, it is actually just one of the many possible causes of the condition. It can happen to people of any age, gender, background or profession.

Myth 5: Tinnitus makes you deaf

Tinnitus does not make you deaf, but it might start at the same time as hearing loss. Often as your ability to hear outside sounds decreases because of a hearing loss, your brain will focus more on the internal noises and you might become increasingly aware of tinnitus.

In some people, tinnitus can be an indication of something more serious, so it’s important to visit your health care professional to eliminate any underlying problem.

IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.