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MENIERE\'S DISEASE: NON-SPECIFIC MEASURES TO MANAGE TINNITUS
Tinnitus sufferers need reassurance and explanation of the condition. Many people worry that their tinnitus is a symptom of a brain tumour, cancer, a stroke, approaching insanity or the development of a severe hearing loss. Many people are simply seeking reassurance that no serious condition is present. When given this assurance after appropriate investigation they are no longer bothered by tinnitus, although when they think about it they can still hear it.
If the tinnitus is caused by noise induced hearing loss, it is obvious that very loud continuous sound should be avoided. However, the approach sometimes adopted of as near complete sound avoidance as possible, is now considered undesirable in light of newer theories of desensitization.
Heavy caffeine intake and smoking definitely seem to aggravate most tinnitus. Smoking should cease completely (for other health reasons as well, of course). A one month trial of total caffeine avoidance is worth trying, i.e. avoiding anything which may contain caffeine such as coffee, tea, chocolate or cola drinks.
Review medications being taken, as some (e.g. aspirin, anti-inflammatory, etc.), can exacerbate tinnitus.
Check whether any of these above factors that are known or suspected to aggravate tinnitus are present. It may involve checking any medication taken with your general practitioner.
If you suspect there is a link between any of the above and your tinnitus, seek expert advice on appropriate management techniques from your doctor or audiologist. One of the biggest problems in coping with tinnitus is that tension and anxiety seem to make it appear louder and more overwhelming.
*15/133/5*
GENERAL HEALTH
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