Tinnitus and Brain Noise: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine

Tinnitus and pulsatile tinnitus issues?

Hello, Dr.
Gao.
I have never experienced tinnitus before, but it started about three weeks ago, a day or two after the four-day Double Tenth holiday.
I really can't believe that the Chinese medicine doctor prescribed medication suggesting that my emotional state is causing neural fatigue, which in turn leads to tinnitus.
I only started feeling anxious and irritable a few days after the onset of tinnitus because I dislike the disturbance caused by these ringing sounds; they are too loud and make it hard to sleep.
Dr.
Gao, my family does not understand and believes that my poor sleep and insomnia are causing the neural fatigue, but I don't have insomnia like my mother.
Even if I go to bed late, I still feel well-rested.
The main issue is that besides the tinnitus and the accompanying brain noise, sometimes my left ear feels as if it is blocked, similar to the sensation of wearing earplugs.
However, my left ear is clean and free of earwax.
The sounds I hear are either a ringing or static noise, similar to the sound of a poorly tuned radio.
This noise becomes particularly noticeable and loud when it is quiet around me.
My tinnitus in the left ear sometimes suddenly accompanies brain noise, occurring 24/7.
May I ask, Dr.
Gao, if there are any traditional Chinese medicine treatments or acupuncture options for tinnitus?

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/03

Dr. Gao Peiyi reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Based on the current situation, it is recommended to prioritize traditional Chinese medicine, with acupuncture as a supplementary treatment.

Reply Date: 2023/11/03

More Info

Tinnitus, often described as a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears, can be a distressing condition that significantly impacts one's quality of life. In your case, the onset of tinnitus following a holiday and the subsequent emotional distress you experienced is noteworthy. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers various approaches to address tinnitus, including herbal remedies and acupuncture, which may be beneficial for your symptoms.

From a TCM perspective, tinnitus can be attributed to various underlying factors, including kidney deficiency, liver qi stagnation, and phlegm accumulation. The kidneys are believed to house the essence that supports hearing, while the liver is responsible for the smooth flow of qi (energy) throughout the body. When these systems are out of balance, it can lead to auditory disturbances such as tinnitus.

The herbal formula prescribed by your TCM practitioner, which includes ingredients like "抑肝散" (Yigan San), "遠志" (Yuan Zhi), "甘麥大棗散" (Gan Mai Da Zao San), and "石菖蒲" (Shi Chang Pu), is aimed at calming the mind and addressing emotional disturbances. While these herbs may help with anxiety and emotional stress, they may not directly target the physiological causes of tinnitus. It is essential to have a comprehensive diagnosis to ensure that the treatment aligns with your specific condition.

In your case, the emotional distress you experienced after the onset of tinnitus could be a contributing factor to your symptoms. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate tinnitus, creating a vicious cycle where the noise becomes more pronounced due to heightened awareness and emotional response. Therefore, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of your condition is crucial.

Acupuncture is another TCM modality that may provide relief from tinnitus. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, it can help restore balance to the body's energy systems, promote relaxation, and improve overall well-being. Some studies have shown that acupuncture may reduce the severity of tinnitus and improve the quality of life for those affected.

In addition to TCM treatments, it is important to consider lifestyle modifications that may help alleviate your symptoms. Avoiding loud noises, managing stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga, and ensuring adequate sleep can all contribute to reducing the perception of tinnitus. Furthermore, maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated can support overall health and potentially improve your symptoms.

If your tinnitus persists or worsens, it may be beneficial to consult with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Conditions such as ear infections, hearing loss, or even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can contribute to tinnitus and may require different treatment approaches.

In summary, while TCM offers valuable insights and potential treatments for tinnitus, it is essential to have a thorough understanding of the underlying causes of your symptoms. Combining TCM approaches with conventional medical evaluations can provide a more comprehensive strategy for managing tinnitus. Remember that individual responses to treatment can vary, and it may take time to find the most effective approach for your specific situation.

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