Tinnitus is a condition in which you hear intermittent sounds or persistent sounds in one or both of your ears. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, tinnitus affects about 36 million Americans, causing ear noises that range from a low roar to a high-pitched whine. Nutritional treatments -- including dietary changes and nutritional supplements -- may be a helpful adjunct therapy in treating your tinnitus. Ask your doctor if these natural health approaches are right for you and your condition.
About Tinnitus
Although the exact cause of tinnitus is unknown, there are many factors that may contribute to this condition. The American Tinnitus Association states that the following factors may trigger or exacerbate your tinnitus: chronic exposure to loud noises, physical trauma to your head and neck, certain types of tumors and medications, cardiovascular disease, jaw problems, wax accumulation in your ear and certain medical conditions, including thoracic outlet syndrome, fibromyalgia and Lyme disease.
Tinnitus Dietary Approach
There are several important dietary changes you can make to help treat your tinnitus or other hearing problems. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," helpful dietary inclusions for this health purpose include fresh pineapple, garlic, kelp and sea vegetables. Also consider reducing your consumption of alcohol, sugar, caffeine, chocolate and sodium. Antioxidant-containing foods -- fruits, vegetables and whole grains -- may also be beneficial in treating certain types of hearing problems.
Beneficial Nutritional Supplements
One of the most beneficial nutritional supplements in treating your tinnitus or other hearing problems, states naturopathic physician Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr., author of "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine," is ginkgo biloba. Other beneficial supplements may include coenzyme Q10, coenzyme A, vitamin E, vitamin C with bioflavonoids, vitamin B complex, thyme, mullein, eucalyptus and hyssop. Although many of these supplements have historically been used in treating hearing problems, including tinnitus, their true efficacy for this health purpose may be unknown.
Additional Information
Tinnitus is an often bothersome condition that may lower your quality of life. If you suffer from tinnitus or other hearing problems, schedule an appointment with your family physician to be properly diagnosed and treated. Your doctor may refer you to a hearing specialist who can counsel you on your treatment options, including natural therapies such as dietary changes and nutritional supplementation. Not all nutritional supplements may be right for you or your overall condition.
References
- American Academy of Otolaryngology: Tinnitus
- American Tinnitus Association: About Tinnitus
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr., N.D.; 2002
