Can't cope with tinnitus

[FeatherySquawkington]

Had it for nearly three weeks, caused by ear/jaw issue I think but waiting for a referral to look into it. I'm feeling so low and desperate, I don't want this for the rest of my life but think that's what's going to happen. I hate it so much.

DH suffers really badly too, due to an injury some years ago. He has found that tinnitus playlists really help, especially at bed time, you have to find the one that cancels out your individual noise level, but when you find it, it's marvellous. Also, he has recently got some ear inserts, I think they are called "calmer" which he says has improved his hearing. Worth a try while you are waiting for your referral.

Thanks for your reply. Mine is at such a high pitch that it's hard to find anything that will mask it. I do have the odd minute or two where I've realised I wasn't actively 'listening' to it. But generally it's always there on my mind.

My hearing doesn't seem to be affected thankfully.

It is such a distressing condition to have, particularly at the beginning.

From my referral I was given a brain scan to elimate tumours etc, also was sent for a hearing test, hearing aids help some people though didn't help mine. The loudness fluctuates, usually if I'm feeling unwell and if it's very loud it does make me feel anxious, I try meditation/relaxation then.

If it's any comfort you will find coping strategies, I need to listen to 'words' to go to sleep, sounds don't distract me enough though do help others.

I hope you find that it's temporary for you. Take care.

Hi op , I had this for almost two months (in my case it was an inner ear infection) , I know the feeling as even with treatment it wouldn’t go and I remember a dr telling me it could be permanent so I get that feeling of despair. Hopefully they will get to the bottom of it for you!!!
In my case it decreased and just went eventually.
During the day it was ok but night it was a constant drilling-like noise that went up and down in waves. I got an app of white noise and it really , really made a huge different as it interrupted the tinnitus and I couldn’t hear it then. Things non intrusive like rain fall or something that you find comforting .
I really hope it goes for you and there are lots of coping mechanisms out there now

Op , have you had your iron levels checked? V low iron can cause tinnitus

I've been taking iron tablet for the last 3 months due to low ferritin levels so shouldn't be low iron. GP reluctantly prescribed some antibiotics for me today in case of an infection, at least that'll be ruled out. I'm trying not to despair but it's difficult.

I do sometimes hear my heart beat 'whooshing' in the affected ear which I can stop if I pinch my nose and swallow. Makes me think something is going on in that ear which will hopefully improve with time.

I actually think it’s worth taking the antibiotics, it took two lots with mine and it stopped a few days into the second course of antibiotics so fingers crossed for you op.

Feathery - I just did the nose pinching thing you suggested and my whooshing sound has gone 😮how does that work?
Thanks

@curlyfries Probably something to do with the pressure in the eustachian tube? I wish it would get rid of the other noise too!