Globally, the Covid-19 pandemic has drastically changed a lot of aspects of our lives, including our hearing health. According to a study led by Anglia Ruskin University and published in Frontiers in Public Health, they found that COVID-19 symptoms can exacerbate tinnitus. In addition to the physiological effect from COVID-19, social measures and psychological effects can also intensify this symptom.
What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is not a disease in and of itself, but is most commonly a symptom that is caused by other underlying conditions. This may include age-related hearing loss, a problem with the circulatory system or an ear injury.
In general, it is the perception of noise, buzzing, roaring, hissing, or clicks, in the ears without an external source. These sounds can be heard in one or both ears. Also, depending on its cause, it can be temporary or permanent.
How is COVID-19 Related to Tinnitus?
The cited study shows that tinnitus can be aggravated by symptoms of COVID-19. It also points out that prevention measures against the pandemic can also generate this effect.
The research was carried out with data from 3,103 people from 48 different countries who have Tinnitus. Of the total number of people surveyed, North America represented 49% and Europe represented 47% of the individuals.
The Results:
According to the results, 40% of the people surveyed experienced a worsening of their tinnitus when having symptoms of COVID-19. Along the same lines, 54% did not perceive changes in tinnitus with Coronavirus symptoms.
On the other hand, 6% perceived an improvement in tinnitus. Preventative measures for COVID-19, such as social distancing, also seem to affect individuals with tinnitus. The study points out that tinnitus became more bothersome for 32% of people due to the social and emotional consequences. 67% of people reported not experiencing changes in tinnitus due to social contexts.
In addition, the study notes that tinnitus was exacerbated in people who were isolated or who experienced loneliness. The study also indicates that poor sleep, lack of exercise, irritability, and financial concerns aggravated the discomfort of tinnitus.
Although there is no concrete evidence that COVID-19 causes tinnitus, the study notes that few respondents indicated that they developed it when they contracted the virus.
By way of conclusions, the study indicates that these findings may have implications in the management of tinnitus. Consequently, health services must consider that tinnitus could be caused or exacerbated by contracting COVID-19. Finally, the study raises the need to provide support when tinnitus is increased due to the social, health, and emotional stress that the pandemic has caused. .
Treatment for Tinnitus:
Since there is no specific treatment for tinnitus, this type of ringing in the ears can be chronic. However, you should consult a specialist, such as an otolaryngologist, if it is persistent, occurs often or is bothersome in the slightest bit.
There are a range of tools like mobile apps that deliver sound therapies in hopes of relieving the discomfort of tinnitus. You can try the AudioCardio™ app that is designed to maintain and strengthen your hearing by stimulating the cells inside your ear just below the audible level. It’s like physical therapy for your hearing.
AudioCardio is a technology company focused on hearing health and wellness. Learn how AudioCardio can help maintain and strengthen your hearing with your favorite headphones or hearing aids at www.audiocardio.com.
