Management of Tinnitus

Since tinnitus may be caused by an underlying problem, the first thing you should do is make an appointment with your ENT to rule out any conditions.

There are a number of things you can do to manage your tinnitus. These are not a substitute for professional advice.

• If you are struggling to get to sleep, try listening to ambient sounds - for example, relaxation CDs. Radio and TV, on the other hand, can be thought-provoking and stop you relaxing.
  
  
• Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic drinks late at night as these can disturb your natural sleeping pattern.
  
  
• If your tinnitus is keeping you awake for long periods at night, trying getting up, going to a different room and doing something distracting - such as making a warm milky drink, or having a warm bath.
  
  
• Stress can make tinnitus worse, so try to keep your stress and anxiety levels low through relaxation and exercise. Seeing a counsellor may also be helpful.
  
  
• Take a 'holistic' approach to your health - one that includes your whole person and lifestyle. Improving your general health, through better diet and more exercise, could also help with your tinnitus.
  
  
• If you enjoy going to clubs or concerts regularly, invest in a pair of good earplugs which lower volume without affecting sound quality.
  
  
• You could try a complementary therapy, such as acupuncture, homeopathy or reflexology. While research has shown that complementary therapy is unlikely to have a direct benefit on your tinnitus, it may help you manage your stress levels.
  
  
• Join a Tinnitus Support Group to meet people who will understand what you are going through - you can share tips and positive stories. Contact the tinnitus helpline on (01) 8175700 on Thursdays from 10.00am to 12.00pm for support and for details of your nearest group.