Tag: coping

4 ways of coping with Tinnitus

Focus on something else…

When you have constant tinnitus there is no silence.

Noise is always there. When I wrote this post, I was sitting on commuter train in their Quiet Zone area which of course was not so quiet because the fan in the cabin was very loud.  But helpful.  It was constant and it helped me to focus on something other than the ringing in my ears. This brings me to the last suggestion in coping with tinnitus – Focus on Something Else

Some people are so disturbed by their tinnitus that they ask for some kind of solution in desperation; from operations, medications or therapy. What works for some may not work for others. People do different things to help with mild to moderate cases of tinnitus. The list below is a simple suggestion and can be used as a starting point.

My advise is to always see a professional first: your Doctor, Audiologist or Hearing Instrument Specialist.  These people are trained to help and know the best avenue for you to take.

Everyday Coping Methods for Those with Tinnitus

  • Diet – Some swear by having a well-balanced diet.   And to watch the sodium intake and the amount of caffeine you consume daily.
  • Relaxation – a good vacation or a staycation, just time off from that busy schedule to de-stress and relax.  Find a quiet place to close your eyes and put your head back if only for 15 minutes daily to start. Have a good night sleep. Check out this cool post: Power Napping vs Sleeping
  • Exercise –  is good but in moderation. If you are starting a new exercise program please check with your doctor especially if you haven’t been active for a while. Take up walking.  It is great exercise and it doesn’t cost much.  All you need are good pair of walking shoes and comfortable clothing.  No time?  Take a walk at lunch or on your break. It doesn’t have to be a long walk just enough to get you moving. Or learn a new game or sport to keep active.
  • Learn something new or do something old you enjoy –  revisit that stamp collection or take an art class or learn to play an instrument the list goes on. My example:
    Last year my sister and I took up Line dancing. Who would think! But we loved it. We had a workout, met new people and learned something new.  Got the brain working differently. It was a great exercise for the body and healthy for the brain.

The Take Away

When you are occupied with something else other than the noises in your ears you can slowly begin not noticing the ringing as much.

Remember – before starting any form of exercise speak to your doctor first.  

For some exercise ideas check out:  Social and Emotional Benefits of Regular Exercise

Tinnitus- the Unwelcomed Family Member

Tinnitus is an unwelcomed experience.  For all of us who suffer from tinnitus it could come and go as it pleases or it could decide to stay.  We have no control over this ringing in- the- ear- menace but, we try to live with it daily, sometimes with success and others times without.

One thing you must realise is that you are not alone.  Tinnitus does not only affect the sufferer but others like family members, friends and colleagues, basically anyone close. These people could become your greatest support group.

What is the best way to get this support?

Take a guest with you to your appointment for the hearing test and tinnitus assessment.  It will deepen their understanding about what you are experiencing which could then lead to a good sense of sympathy.

It is this sympathy that is needed.  Sympathy leads to kindness.  And kindness leads to support.

You need support because tinnitus could at times be overwhelming.  People closest to you can give you the support you need. The more they understand the better the support.

Don’t keep your tinnitus suffering to yourself.  Tell someone who would listen.

Next post — a few tinnitus treatments…

Talk later….