Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the ears or head where no external source is present. This sound may be a ringing noise, swooshing sound, hissing, roaring, pulsing or other type of noise. In some cases, the sound pulsates with the heartbeat. Tinnitus can occur occasionally, all the time and be mild or disabling. While there are drugs, sound therapy techniques and other treatment approaches, there is no cure for this condition and it's very difficult to treat. Each patient must find personal triggers and solutions to manage symptoms. Part of the treatment program may include speaking with a physician about possible foods that can worsen tinnitus.
Caffeine
Avoid or reduce the intake of foods and beverages that contain caffeine, as caffeine can make tinnitus worse, states MedlinePlus. Caffeine is a known stimulant that can increase the activity of the central nervous system, which in turn can exacerbate symptoms.
Caffeine is found in coffee, soda, chocolate and in coffee-flavored foods such as ice cream, yogurt and others. Sugar, which is another product that can stimulate the nervous system, may need to be cut back or eliminated as well.
Since everyone's sensitivity to caffeine and sugar is different, it may take some experimentation to find the amount that you can ingest without aggravating the disease.
Alcohol
Alcohol is another substance that you should cut back or eliminate if you have tinnitus. Alcohol increases the force of the blood being pushed though the blood vessels. This dilates the blood vessels, which can increase pressure near the ears, MayoClinic.com warns. Nicotine, while not a food, is another common trigger for tinnitus. Thus, you have another reason to quit smoking.
High-Salt Foods
Salt can lead to fluid retention and increased pressure in the blood vessels, which can impair circulation. Salt is found in high concentrations in many prepared and processed foods. Restaurant food also tends to be high.
It's important to learn to read labels and choose low-sodium foods, avoid adding table salt to foods when cooking and eating and to ask for no salt to be added to foods when eating out.
High-Fat Foods
High blood pressure isn't just a possible cause of tinnitus; it can make symptoms worsen, claims the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. To help keep blood pressure in check, it's important to reduce your intake of saturated fat, cholesterol and triglycerides. Since high blood pressure can exist without ever causing symptoms, it's important to check it regularly. However, some experience tinnitus as the first early-warning sign of high blood pressure.
