5 Myths about Tinnitus

Buzzing, ringing and ticking the word is different for the sound you’re hearing, but the condition is the same: tinnitus. The perception of sound where there is no present sound in the room is known as tinnitus. Currently, over 50 million Americans are living with tinnitus in some form or another. 

It’s an annoying condition that can lead to some people isolating themselves. Speaking to an audiologist can help you to identify whether you are dealing with tinnitus due to hearing loss, or you are dealing with tinnitus due to overexposure to noise and damage to the small hairs in the ear.

Some people develop acute tinnitus because of an illness. If you have had a bad head cold, for example, the pressure on the eardrums can cause a constant ringing in the ears, and it’s not always easy to deal with. More often, tinnitus is something that you can manage easily over time, but for some people, it becomes unbearable. 

Sometimes, tinnitus is temporary, but for some, it’s a more permanent situation. You likely know someone with tinnitus, or you've dealt with it yourself at some point or another. However, it’s essential to separate the myths from the truth. It’s a common condition, but it’s one that is mostly misunderstood by the majority of people. So, let’s take a look at some of the most common myths floating around!

Myth: The ringing means someone is talking about you

Some old wives tales say that ringing ears are down to gossip. However, this is the explanation of the mildest form of tinnitus. At some stage or another, we will all deal with tinnitus. Some people have it after the flu, but others deal with it after a day working in construction or at a concert. The problem is that over time, it can get worse, and it can affect your everyday life. Believing in myths like this one often prevents people from getting the help that they need. If the ringing in your ears is getting worse or is starting to interrupt your daily life, getting help is the best solution.

Myth: One loud noise can start it off

You cannot develop tinnitus just by attending a concert for one night or hearing one loud bang. However, you can notice tinnitus temporarily after a concert. The exposure to the loud bass sounds in the speakers can affect your hearing and you can hear buzzing for a few days afterwards. Severe symptoms can often present themselves if you’re exposed to noise for a long time. However, tinnitus can be more severe and last longer.

Myth: You should just live with this

No one deserves to live with tinnitus. There is no current cure for tinnitus right now, but it's essential to acknowledge that this is not a joke. The ringing and buzzing you are dealing with can be managed. It’s not something you should just learn to live with, and it’s an attitude that requires a second opinion. If a professional tells you that nothing can be done, seek the help of an audiologist who knows the condition better. They will be able to explain to you precisely what it is and offer you new ways of treating and managing the condition. You should not live in isolation or being irritated continuously by this condition, so get the help that you need and you will be able to live a more comfortable life.

Myth: You could have a brain tumor

Tinnitus is not something that is the result of a brain tumor. If you are worried that something is seriously wrong, you need to seek some help. Stress can exacerbate tinnitus and the worry of a brain tumor or another issue can make the condition worse. Envisaging brain tumors is not going to help you to relax. Speak to a doctor and don’t allow anyone to make you panic.

Myth: You’re going insane

We can guarantee you that you are not going nuts if you are hearing ringing and pulsing in your head. You may even sometimes hear the beat of a song, and when this happens, you can feel crazy. You are not crazy. This is a symptom of tinnitus, and it doesn't mean that your cognitive health is declining.

Getting some help

If you are dealing with tinnitus, whether mild or not, you need to get some help. Speak to the experts at Brentwood Hearing Center call today at (615) 866-0431 and you will be able to book an appointment for your hearing today.