Dietary Supplements For Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a ringing in your ears, although tinnitus can also be a clicking or hissing noise in your ears, notes MedlinePlus. There are several common causes of tinnitus, including long-term exposure to loud sounds, medication-related side effects and certain health problems. Tinnitus may be extremely bothersome and can significantly reduce your quality of life. Dietary supplements have long been used in treating tinnitus, although you should always meet with your doctor before using supplements to discuss likely health outcomes.

Tinnitus Background Information

Tinnitus, states the British Tinnitus Association, is common in all age groups, including children, and tinnitus may affect approximately 10 percent of the population. The exact cause of tinnitus is not clear, although it is commonly assumed that this health problem is an ear-related phenomenon. Blood pressure abnormalities, allergies, ear tumors and various jaw and neck problems may also contribute to this condition. The Association notes that tinnitus-related noises may seem worse if you are stressed or anxious.

Dietary Supplements

One of the most effective dietary supplements in treating tinnitus is ginkgo, notes naturopathic physician William A. Mitchell Jr., author of "Plant Medicine in Practice." Ginkgo is used to help improve hearing loss associated with reduced ear blood flow. Manganese and folic acid are often deficient in people with ear disorders. Dietary supplements that may help boost blood flow to your ears include ginseng, burdock and ginger. More scientific research evidence for the use of these supplements for this health purpose is required to determine their efficacy and mechanisms of action.

A Commonly Used Supplement

Ginkgo may be one of the most commonly used dietary supplements in treating tinnitus. Ginkgo, notes the American Academy of Family Physicians, may be particularly helpful in treating tinnitus of a vascular origin. The Academy states that several scientific studies have shown ginkgo's ability to treat this bothersome health problem, and it concludes that ginkgo is a safe and efficacious supplement in the treatment of numerous conditions, including tinnitus, Alzheimer's disease and intermittent claudication.

Considerations

Because there are several possible causes of tinnitus, it is important to meet with your doctor if you develop this bothersome health problem. A licensed health-care professional -- especially one who specializes in ear health and function -- can assess your condition and make valuable treatment recommendations. Using dietary supplements to help treat your tinnitus does not guarantee a cure. Always discuss proper dosage and other supplement-related issues with your primary care provider before using dietary supplements.