Can The Cold Weather Make My Tinnitus Worse?
Tinnitus is a symptom where patients experience a ringing or similar noise in one or both of their ears. Tinnitus can be constant or happen every so often. It can also happen with both those with hearing loss and those without. Many who have tinnitus don't realize that weather conditions can affect this condition.
Cold Weather and Tinnitus
It's common for those with tinnitus to notice their symptoms get worse as the weather gets colder. An obvious reason for this is due to added pressure in the ear caused by cold and flu infections in the body. Additionally, increased rates of depression happen in the colder winter months. This can add pressure to the ears, which leads to excessive ringing.
Experts suggest that the reason tinnitus is worse in cold weather is due to the lifestyle of the patient. Many patients have a more sedentary lifestyle than during the summer months. Some may drink more caffeine or alcohol than they're used to, which can trigger tinnitus to worsen. The shorter days can lead to heightened anxiety or depression. This can also make tinnitus worse.
What is a Tinnitus Spike and What Causes It?
A tinnitus spike is an increase in the usual level of ringing noise that you're familiar with hearing. This could be an increase in the actual volume, pitch, tone, or intensity of the noise. You may notice these spikes come and go, increase over time, or last for a short burst of time.
Unfortunately, many different factors can cause these spikes. These include unexpected stress, eating certain foods, and taking certain medications. Sudden weather changes, temperature changes, and lack of sleep can also cause these.
How to Reduce the Effects of Tinnitus
If you experience your normal symptoms or a spike, there are very things that you can do to help manage the symptom. One of the best things you can do is help to identify what is triggering your worsening tinnitus symptom. You should try to remove it from your daily life. For example, you may notice that when you drink caffeine, the intensity of your ringing gets worse. By limiting caffeine in your diet, you can help reduce the intensity of your ringing sounds.
Lack of sleep and stress are well-known indicators of worsening tinnitus. You should manage these parts of your life to help reduce the amount of ringing that you experience. Plan to have a good night's sleep and ensure that you exercise enough. Other activities can also help to relieve stress. There are many things you can do to limit these two problems.
Call Us Today
If you have tinnitus or hearing loss, it's time to contact our hearing care professionals. Our licensed hearing care professionals can test your hearing for free. We can provide you with treatment options to help with your hearing needs.
