If you’re regularly hearing ringing, clicking, buzzing, hissing, or roaring, but are sitting alone in a quiet room, you’ve likely got tinnitus.
Tinnitus is not a disease, but rather a symptom of something else. There are several conditions that lead to tinnitus, and they tend to involve inner ear damage. The severity of tinnitus can range from light and occasional to severe, and treatments typically depend on how limiting an individual case is. In any event, any amount of ringing in the ears can restrict your quality of life.
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But even if you have a very mild case, there is no cure. Therefore, treatment and management is the option.
Common treatments are hearing aids, sound-masking devices, or customized sound machines. All of these treatments attempt to drown out the tinnitus, so you’re not stuck with that annoying sound. There is also, however, some support for natural treatments.
One supplement that’s got a lot of buzz for its impact on tinnitus is the herb Gingko Biloba. A review in The International Tinnitus Journal from 2017 found the herb could improve tinnitus resulting from several causes. Gingko Biloba may work by improving blood flow to the ears and acting as an anti-inflammatory. Studies have also shown that up to 50 percent of patients treated with Gingko Biloba for four weeks said it was useful.
Managing stress may also help prevent tinnitus from flaring up. Tinnitus can be aggravated by stress or anxiety, so finding ways to handle stress, like exercise, mindfulness, and meditation may play a role.
Ear health can be difficult to manage and is best diagnosed by a doctor. If you’ve recently noticed you’re hearing sounds that aren’t there, you can try taking a Gingko Biloba supplement, but talk to your doctor first. Herbal supplements may have interactions with medications you’re currently taking, so be safe. In the meantime, book an appointment to help determine the cause of the ringing.
About eight years ago, Mat Lecompte had an epiphany. He’d been ignoring his health and suddenly realized he needed to do something about it. Since then, through hard work, determination and plenty of education, he has transformed his life. He’s changed his body composition by learning the ins and outs of nutrition, exercise, and fitness and wants to share his knowledge with you. Starting as a journalist over 10 years ago, Mat has not only honed his belief system and approach with practical experience, but he has also worked closely with nutritionists, dieticians, athletes, and fitness professionals. He embraces natural healing methods and believes that diet, exercise and willpower are the foundation of a healthy, happy, and drug-free existence.
