Many older adults notice ongoing buzzing or ringing sounds that don’t have an external source. Known clinically as tinnitus, these internal noises can be a source of frustration and anxiety for many aging adults. Even though age is a major factor, differentiating between age-induced tinnitus and alternative triggers is essential for effective care.
Your daily comfort can be greatly impacted by tinnitus, yet you are not required to view it as an unavoidable burden of age. We are exploring the specifics of tinnitus in older adults to help you identify the cause and find available paths for relief.
What Is Tinnitus?
The medical definition of tinnitus is hearing sound when there is no environmental source. Individuals often describe the sound as a high-pitched ring, though hissing, buzzing, or roaring are also common. It can be steady or sporadic, affect one or both ears, and range from mildly annoying to highly disruptive.
The National Library of Medicine reports the following statistics regarding the senior population:
- Tinnitus is present in about one in five seniors.
- Daily life is affected for one out of every ten seniors living with tinnitus.
- The data shows that individuals with hearing impairment face a twofold increase in the risk of developing tinnitus.
The emotional toll of unceasing tinnitus can include profound anguish, sleep deprivation, and depression. Luckily, there is support available. But first, let’s dive into the difference between age-related and non-age-related tinnitus.
When Tinnitus Is Age-Related
Presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, stands as a primary driver of tinnitus in the senior population.
Common characteristics of age-linked tinnitus include:
- Develops slowly over time.
- Is experienced concurrently with age-related hearing loss.
- Sounds like sharp whistling or static.
- Becomes more noticeable in quiet environments.
Non-Age-Related Triggers
It is vital to look beyond age, as many cases of tinnitus are caused by manageable medical or environmental factors, like:
- Noise exposure earlier in life, including military service, factory work, or loud concerts.
- The use of pharmaceuticals, including high-dose aspirin or intensive antibiotics.
- Cardiovascular conditions, such as high blood pressure.
- Earwax buildup, which is frequently seen in advancing age.
Why Tinnitus Must Not Be Dismissed
However, persistent tinnitus can impact:
- The overall duration of your nightly sleep.
- Your daily focus and the ability to recall important information.
- Psychological well-being and your overall level of stress.
- Your total well-being and social activities.
What You Can Do
- Hearing aids, which frequently lessen tinnitus by enhancing sound input.
- Engaging in sound therapy tools designed to habituate the brain to the noise.
- Working with a doctor to adjust prescriptions that may be causing the noise.
- Lifestyle adjustments to reduce stress and improve sleep.
Contact our staff of professionals today to schedule an appointment. We’re ready to help.
