It transforms the sound waves into proper sound and also houses the fluid that balances your body.
Ears - The Structural Marvel
Structurally, the ear is one of the most complex and advanced organs. Consisting of three major parts — external, middle, and inner ear, it is known as the vestibulocochlear organ.
As complex as it is, it also experiences various structural and functional challenges as a person age.
In fact, aging is one of the major causes of hearing loss and about 20% of seniors in India are experiencing hearing issues that are mild to severe levels.
Aging and Hearing Loss
It is not an uncommon scene to see older people placing their palms next to the ear when they want to hear something.
This is an involuntary effort from the body to listen and also an indication that something is not very right with the ears.
Difficulty in hearing is not always because of hearing loss. There are various reasons for it such as ear infections, ear wax blocks, and tinnitus.
Tinnitus and Hearing Loss in Seniors
Tinnitus is a condition where the senior could listen to ringing, clicking, or buzzing sounds even when there is no external source for the sound.
This is just a perception pertaining to the person alone! And this can be acute and chronic based on the root cause.
Based on the source of the sound, there are two types of tinnitus — subjective and objective tinnitus.
● Subjective - More than 99% of tinnitus cases are subjective. Only the person can hear the sound. However, some of these sounds can be traceable with the help of advanced auditory equipment.
● Objective - Only 1% of people experience this and the sound they hear is majorly the sound of blood flow and internal organs functioning.
Tinnitus in Old Age
One might think seniors experience tinnitus because of hearing loss. In reality, there is no relation between hearing loss and tinnitus.
Not every senior with hearing loss experiences tinnitus. This is a condition observed in seniors who are not diagnosed with hearing loss.
Symptoms of Tinnitus in Elderly
The typical symptoms of tinnitus include constant buzzing, ringing, clicking, and hissing. And this is common across all age groups not just in seniors.
Some people live with tinnitus for years and do not need medical help. This happens when the symptoms are mild or at the ignorable level.
However, it is highly recommended to consult an ENT specialist if the symptoms are developed after a head injury.
In some cases, the symptoms can be observed after a respiratory infection and consult the ENT doctor if the symptoms continue for more than a week.
Reasons Why Seniors are Prone to Tinnitus
In most cases, tinnitus is a result of an existing chronic condition or infection. Here are the common health issues that can lead to tinnitus.
● Meniere’s Disease - Also known as balance disorder in seniors, Meniere’s disease disrupts the balance function in elderly. Tinnitus is one of its early symptoms.
● Diabetes - This chronic condition can lead to blood vessel disorders which can affect the hair cells in the ear. This can lead to tinnitus.
● Rheumatoid Arthritis - by damaging the tiny joints in the middle and inner ear, rheumatoid arthritis causes tinnitus in older adults.
● Natural Aging Process - Tinnitus can occur as a result of the natural aging process, without any comorbidities. Cell deterioration of the cochlea and other parts of the ear is the major reason.
Seniors can maintain their quality of life and live with tinnitus for years without any issues. Of course, with the support of needed medical support.
● Avoid Sitting in Silence - Silent ambiance nurtures the ringing sensation in the ears. Avoid silent ambiance.
● Play your favorite music at low volume to
counter the ringing sensation
● However, avoid using headphones to listen to
music
● Mindfulness Activities - Tinnitus is not a dangerous condition but it can make seniors easily slip into depression.
● Start practicing mindfulness activities to
control your thoughts and blood pressure.
● Learn muscle relaxing techniques and practice them daily
● Shift Your Focus - The more you focus on tinnitus, the more intense the sensations in the ear can get.
● Do whatever you want but keep yourself too busy
to notice the sensation in your ears
● Pursue a hobby, involve in mood-enhancing activities, or better socialize more for an active senior life.
● Active Senior Life - It goes without saying — Physical activity is the most important factor to embrace age gracefully.
● Exercise regularly and practice meditation and
yoga
● Stay physically and mentally active
If you are a senior diagnosed with tinnitus, take help from the home care providers to manage it better at your home!
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