Many seniors notice ongoing buzzing or ringing sounds that don’t have an external source. Known clinically as tinnitus, these internal noises can be a catalyst for discomfort and stress for many aging adults. While tinnitus is more prevalent with advancing age, not all cases in seniors are simply an inevitable part of aging, and recognizing the difference is essential.
You should never simply tolerate tinnitus as a standard part of the aging experience, especially when it impacts your well-being. Today, we’re taking a look at what’s age-related, what isn’t, and available steps if you have tinnitus.
Understanding Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the experience of sound without an external source. Although ringing and buzzing are the most frequent descriptions, the sound can also present as roaring, whistling, or clicking. It can be constant or intermittent, occur in one or both ears, and range from a minor nuisance to a debilitating issue.
The National Library of Medicine reports the following statistics regarding the senior population:
- Approximately twenty percent of seniors have tinnitus.
- Daily life is compromised for 10% of older people suffering from tinnitus.
- Individuals with hearing loss were twice as likely to have tinnitus.
When the noise is intrusive or constant, it can result in mental health challenges such as fatigue and severe anxiety. Luckily, there is support available. Before seeking help, it is important to understand whether your tinnitus is a result of aging or other factors.
Identifying Tinnitus Caused by Aging
Presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, remains a primary driver of tinnitus in the senior population.
When aging is the primary cause, the tinnitus typically:
- Develops slowly over time.
- Is experienced concurrently with age-related hearing impairment.
- Is frequently characterized as high-frequency ringing or static-like noise.
- Is easier to detect when the surroundings are silent.
When Tinnitus Is Not Just About Aging
While age-related changes play a role, many cases of tinnitus in older adults are linked to other triggers, including:
- Noise exposure earlier in life, such as military service, factory work, or loud concerts.
- Ototoxic drugs, such as high doses of common medicines.
- Blood flow problems, including hypertension, that affect the ears.
- Simple earwax blockage, which is a common and treatable cause of ringing.
Why Tinnitus Shouldn’t Be Dismissed
Yet, it is essential to realize that long-term tinnitus influences:
- Sleep hygiene.
- Your daily focus and recall of important information.
- Overall mood balance and the likelihood of increased anxiety.
- Overall quality of life.
What You Can Do
- Utilizing hearing aids to provide the brain with increased auditory stimulation and lessen tinnitus focus.
- Sound masking or masking techniques.
- Modifying prescriptions (where appropriate).
- Implementing new habits that focus on stress reduction and better sleep patterns.
Contact our staff of specialists today to make an appointment. Our staff is committed to supporting your auditory health.