How to Alleviate Tinnitus Caused by Volleyball Injury After 37 Years

37 years ago, I was hit by a volleyball while passing by the school gymnasium, which resulted in tinnitus?

Dr.
Tseng, I have been troubled by tinnitus in my left ear for a long time.
Thirty-seven years ago, I was hit in the left ear by a volleyball in the school gym, which caused the tinnitus that persists to this day.
The quieter it is, the louder the sound of insects becomes, making it difficult for me to sleep.
Conversely, in a noisier environment, the sound of the insects is masked, allowing me to sleep better.
What should I do to eliminate the tinnitus in my left ear? Thank you for your response!

Qiao Zhi, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/12/17

Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine

I apologize, as I am an internist and not specialized in tinnitus.
I recommend consulting an otolaryngologist to investigate whether it is a neurological issue, a traumatic problem, or another concern.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2023/12/17

More Info

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be a frustrating and persistent condition, especially when it has been present for such a long time, as in your case of 37 years following a volleyball injury. The fact that your tinnitus is more pronounced in quiet environments suggests that it may be a form of subjective tinnitus, which is often exacerbated by silence. Here are several approaches to alleviate your tinnitus and improve your quality of life:
1. Consult an Audiologist or ENT Specialist: Since your tinnitus has persisted for decades, it would be beneficial to consult with an audiologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can conduct a thorough evaluation of your hearing and ear health, which may include hearing tests and imaging studies to rule out any underlying conditions that could be contributing to your tinnitus.

2. Sound Therapy: Many individuals with tinnitus find relief through sound therapy. This involves using background noise or white noise machines to mask the ringing in your ears. You might also consider using a fan, soft music, or nature sounds to create a more soothing environment, especially at night when you are trying to sleep.

3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Psychological approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you manage the emotional response to tinnitus. CBT can assist in changing the way you perceive and react to the sound, potentially reducing the distress it causes.

4. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT): This is a specialized form of therapy that combines sound therapy with counseling. The goal of TRT is to help your brain habituate to the tinnitus sound, making it less noticeable over time.

5. Hearing Aids: If your hearing has been affected, using hearing aids may help amplify external sounds, which can mask the tinnitus. Many modern hearing aids come with built-in sound therapy features.

6. Lifestyle Modifications: Certain lifestyle changes can also help manage tinnitus. Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, quitting smoking, and managing stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation can be beneficial.

7. Medications: While there is no specific medication to cure tinnitus, some medications may help alleviate the symptoms or the anxiety associated with it. Discuss this option with your healthcare provider.

8. Avoid Loud Noises: Protecting your ears from loud noises is crucial. If you are exposed to loud environments, consider using earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to prevent further damage to your hearing.

9. Regular Check-ups: Since your tinnitus is linked to a past injury, regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider can help monitor any changes in your condition and adjust your management plan accordingly.

10. Support Groups: Connecting with others who experience tinnitus can provide emotional support and coping strategies. Many organizations offer resources and forums for individuals dealing with tinnitus.

In conclusion, while there is no definitive cure for tinnitus, a combination of sound therapy, psychological support, lifestyle changes, and medical interventions can significantly improve your symptoms and quality of life. It is essential to work closely with healthcare professionals who can tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs. Remember, managing tinnitus is often about finding the right combination of strategies that work for you.

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