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What is tinnitus?
Tinnitus is often described as ‘phantom sounds’: noises that are perceived without actually existing in our surroundings. They may appear as ringing, buzzing, clicking, or even pulsations that follow the rhythm of the heartbeat. Nearly 37% of Canadians experience tinnitus at some point in their lives (CHUM, 2024). Tinnitus is not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom that can have multiple causes.
Cause and effect
Tinnitus can have different origins. Among the most frequent are:
- Hearing loss : often linked to natural aging or prolonged exposure to noise.
- Sound trauma : such as concerts, listening to headphones at high volume, or extremely noisy environments.
- Stress and fatigue : the nervous system can heighten the perception of phantom sounds
- Health problems : including high blood pressure, jaw disorders, or ear infections.
Living with tinnitus can be challenging, especially when one feels alone in facing this condition. Many people report experiencing :
- difficulty concentrating,
- sleep disorders,
- irritability or increased fatigue,
- sometimes even a feeling of isolation.
It is essential to remember that you are not alone. Millions of people share the same experience, and solutions exist to help manage these phantom sounds more effectively.
Solutions for Living Better with Tinnitus
Even though tinnitus may seem daunting, there are concrete ways to tame it and reduce its impact on a daily basis.
Some find relief with modern hearing aids, which improve hearing and possibly reduce the perception of ghost sounds. Others use sound therapies, such as white noise or soothing sounds, which help mask the tinnitus and regain some comfort. However, it is important not to turn the volume too loud, as this can have the opposite effect in the long run.
Stress management also plays a key role. Relaxation, meditation, or regular physical activity can reduce the intensity of the tinnitus and help manage it more effectively. Finally, professional support is essential. Consulting an audiologist makes it possible to identify possible causes and find solutions tailored to each individual.
Conclusion
Tinnitus can be unsettling, but it does not define your daily life. With the right tools and personalized follow-up, it is possible to regain peace of mind and enjoy the simple moments of life. We are here to listen, guide, and provide solutions tailored to your reality. Don’t wait until your tinnitus takes up too much space in your life. Contact your audiologist today for a complete hearing evaluation and discover how to restore comfort again.
Clinique Audia– Audiology in Montreal
Ava Azarnia and Shabnam Arzani
Audiologists and Co-founders of Clinique Audia
Santé Auditive MB – Audiology in Quebec City
Myriam Boudreau
Audiologist and founder of Santé Auditive MB
This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a hearing health professional. If you have any questions about your hearing condition, please consult an audiologist who is a member of the Ordre des orthophonistes et audiologistes du Québec (OOAQ).