Constant noise in your head is distracting, exhausting, and can trigger both anxiety and depression. That’s what people with tinnitus live with every day. About 50 million Americans deal with some degree of tinnitus, 20 million Americans suffer from chronic tinnitus, and 2 million experience extreme symptoms.
Tinnitus is frequently referred to as ringing in the ears but can also include sounds like hissing, whistling, chirping, buzzing, etc. Tinnitus is common, and for many people, it’s an annoying thing they tolerate. However, the constant drone can interfere with hearing, ruin concentration, affect memory, and interfere with sleep. Living with pronounced tinnitus can take a toll on a person’s mental health, triggering depression and anxiety.
What Causes Tinnitus?
Tinnitus can be the byproduct of several conditions. Inner ear hair cell damage and repeated exposure to loud noises are common causes of tinnitus. Age-related hearing loss can be a cause or make existing tinnitus worse.
Other Sources of Tinnitus Can Include:
- Meniere’s disease
- TMJ
- Head and/or neck injuries
- Earwax blockages
- Acoustic neuroma
- Neurological diseases
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Thyroid conditions
- Hyperlipidemia
- Ear infections
- Hormonal changes
- Sinus infections
- Fibromyalgia
- Heart and blood vessel problems
- Ear bone changes
- Eustachian tube dysfunction
- Sinus pressure
- Muscle spasms in the inner ear
- Prescription drug side effects
Can Chiropractic Help with Ringing Ears?
In many cases, chiropractic care can help with tinnitus symptoms; especially when TMJ, head injuries, or neck injuries are involved. In the case of TMJ, also known as temporomandibular joint disorder, it’s believed that connections between ligaments, muscles and/or nerves in the jaw affect tinnitus. Just as subluxations and misalignments can trigger TMJ pain, chiropractic can relieve it and therefore improve tinnitus related to TMJ, head and neck issues, etc.
Cervical spondylosis can also be involved in tinnitus, just as head and neck trauma can cause tinnitus. Even a tight neck can contribute to tinnitus. One study indicated that correct neck alignment could reduce or end tinnitus.
A Holistic Approach to Tinnitus
At Total Chiropractic Care, we care about your well-being and examine your overall health when addressing your medical needs. In addition to Dr. Goldman’s many years of experience, our specialists include a neurosurgeon, orthopedic surgeon, and therapists who work to create the perfect treatment plan for your specific needs. For more information, contact us today.