There have been reports linking tinnitus or problems of ringing in the ear with COVID-19 earlier in the pandemic. Although there was insufficient data to support this claim, experts from different health organizations said that only a small number experienced it while having the infection.
Nonetheless, tinnitus is causing disruptions in those who develop it, as the disorder mainly targets the auditory system. But these days, some new apps and gadgets have been developed to help treat that ringing sound in the ear and provide comfort for those experiencing it.
New Apps and Gadgets That Can Treat Tinnitus
Most cases of tinnitus are short-lived and do not require treatment. But for those who experience the constant and persistent type f ear ringing that could last for more than a few days, it is best to seek advice or help from a medical professional. Unfortunately, there is no one cure for tinnitus.
A paper published in the Journal of Clinical Neurology showed that there are many effective ways of managing the symptoms of tinnitus and reducing its impact on life. Researchers said that one way is to be in a sound-rich environment could help but that it should be at the right level.
Wired reported that quiet music played through the music app Spotify could give a soothing feeling. Meanwhile, a universally recommended option is the Resound Relief app that allows users to create soundscapes by layering sounds and setting either right or left ear the balance to tune the audio. But for those with a Resound hearing aid, it is recommended to ask about tinnitus sound therapy as many hearing aids have built-in sound generators to alleviate the ringing in the ears.
Aside from applications, some gadgets to help with symptoms of tinnitus also include tabletop sound generators, smart speakers, sleep headbands, pillows with built-in audio, and even those sleep gadgets like Bose's SleepBuds II.
American Tinnitus Association (ATA) tinnitus research and communications officer Joy Onozuka said that seeking help for tinnitus could be frustrating since nothing works for everyone. Therefore, it is advisable to start with ad explore inexpensive technologies to help alleviate the symptoms.
Risk Factors of Tinnitus
Anyone could experience tinnitus, but there are some risk factors that could increase the risk of having it. According to Mayo clinic, this includes the following:
- Exposure to loud noises- Loud noises coming from heavy equipment, firearms, portable music devices, and other equipment could cause noise-related hearing loss.
- Age- The older people get, the higher their chance of developing tinnitus because the nerve fibers in the ears also decline.
- Sex- Men are more likely to experience tinnitus than women.
- Cigarette and alcohol use- Smokers and alcohol drinkers have a higher risk of developing tinnitus.
- Underlying health problems- Health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, and history of head injury, all increase risk of tinnitus.
Mayo Clinic recommends seeing a medical professional when people start developing tinnitus, especially when it disrupts their daily lives.
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