Tinnitus: Exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine Insights

Tinnitus issues

I really find it hard to believe what the traditional Chinese medicine doctor told me at the end of last month, that my tinnitus is caused by neural fatigue.
My tinnitus includes sounds like buzzing, EE, or noise similar to a base station, radio static, or poor channel reception.
Sometimes it suddenly accompanies a ringing in my head, and my left ear occasionally feels stuffy.
The tinnitus is constant, 24 hours a day, and I don't know what the cause is.
I don't understand why it suddenly started; I have never experienced tinnitus before.
It began about 1 to 2 days after the four-day Double Tenth holiday.
The tinnitus has persisted for over a month, and last month it was particularly loud—especially noticeable in quiet environments.
I consulted a traditional Chinese medicine doctor, and sometimes I also experience difficulty sleeping.
My mother doesn't understand and thinks my insomnia is causing the tinnitus, but even when I sleep well or go to bed late, I still don't know what is causing the tinnitus or the ringing in my head.
I find it hard to believe that the medicine prescribed by the doctor is for emotional issues leading to neural fatigue causing tinnitus.
Additionally, I really dislike taking Western medicine and undergoing Western medical examinations.
My mother told me that she experienced tinnitus before, sometimes with a buzzing sound.
She said it was because she used to have the same issue, but now she goes to bed early, wakes up early, and exercises, which helps.
She believes that sunlight and a good sleep schedule are important for managing tinnitus, and that long-term poor sleep can lead to neural fatigue.
She mentioned that she used to have trouble sleeping, along with dizziness and nausea, but I don't have dizziness or nausea.
Since the onset of my tinnitus, I have also experienced sudden headaches and overall fatigue.
It's not that I don't want to go to the hospital; it's just that I really dislike taking Western medicine and undergoing examinations.
I have completely lost trust in all Western medical doctors.
Moreover, I occasionally experience a feeling of fullness in my ears, and I've noticed that when the weather is cold, the tinnitus suddenly becomes very quiet, while in hot weather, it becomes very loud.

Mǒu rén, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/24

Dr. Gao Peiyi reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

I'm not quite clear on the issue.

Reply Date: 2023/11/24

More Info

Tinnitus, often described as a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears, can be a perplexing condition for many individuals. Your experience of persistent tinnitus, accompanied by sensations of ear fullness and fatigue, raises important questions about its underlying causes and potential treatments, particularly from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

In TCM, tinnitus is often viewed through the lens of the body's overall balance and harmony. The condition may be attributed to various factors, including deficiencies in the kidney and liver, excess heat, or even emotional disturbances. The notion that your tinnitus is linked to "brain nerve weakness" as suggested by your TCM practitioner aligns with the TCM belief that the kidneys and liver play crucial roles in hearing and auditory function. The kidneys are thought to house the essence that supports the ears, while the liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi (energy) and blood throughout the body.

The sudden onset of your tinnitus following a holiday break could suggest a connection to lifestyle changes, stress, or even fatigue. TCM practitioners often emphasize the importance of lifestyle factors, such as sleep patterns and emotional well-being, in the development of conditions like tinnitus. Your mother's advice about maintaining a regular sleep schedule and engaging in physical activity reflects a common TCM principle: that a balanced lifestyle can help restore harmony within the body.

In terms of treatment, TCM offers various herbal remedies and acupuncture techniques aimed at addressing the root causes of tinnitus. For instance, herbs like "Gou Qi Zi" (Goji berries) and "Sheng Di Huang" (Rehmannia root) may be used to nourish the kidneys and liver, while "Bai Zi Ren" (Biota seed) can help calm the mind and alleviate anxiety. Acupuncture may also be employed to stimulate specific points that correspond to the ears and promote overall Qi flow.

It's important to note that while TCM can provide valuable insights and potential relief, it is not a substitute for comprehensive medical evaluation. If you have concerns about your tinnitus, particularly if it is accompanied by other symptoms like headaches or fatigue, it may be beneficial to seek a consultation with a healthcare professional who can provide a thorough assessment. This could include audiological evaluations or imaging studies to rule out any underlying conditions.

Additionally, your apprehension towards Western medicine is understandable, especially if past experiences have led to distrust. However, it may be worth considering a collaborative approach that integrates both TCM and Western medical insights. This can help ensure that you receive a well-rounded understanding of your condition and access to various treatment modalities.

In summary, tinnitus can be a multifaceted condition influenced by various physical and emotional factors. TCM offers a holistic perspective that emphasizes balance and harmony within the body, and while it can provide valuable strategies for managing tinnitus, it is essential to remain open to comprehensive medical evaluation and treatment options. Engaging in healthy lifestyle practices, such as regular sleep, exercise, and stress management, can also play a significant role in alleviating symptoms and improving your overall well-being.

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