Tinnitus refers to a condition in which there is ringing in the ears. The Mayo Clinic says this can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Specific symptoms also can include a roaring, buzzing, whistling, hissing or clicking sound in the ears. Treatment includes removing earwax, taking such medications as alprazolam or suppressing noise with hearing aids or masking devices. The Mayo Clinic states that tinnitus is common and affects one in five people. Sometimes, it can lead to certain complications.
Insomnia
Tinnitus can lead to insomnia. The Mayo Clinic explains that specific insomnia symptoms include trouble falling asleep, waking up during the middle of the night, depression, irritability, anxiety, stress and trouble sleeping. Insomnia also can result in increased accidents, sleepiness, headaches and worries about getting enough sleep.
Management for insomnia includes evaluating sleep patterns, specifying a set time for naps, utilizing cognitive therapy to found out the source for the insomnia and light therapy. Medications such as zolpidem, zaleplon or eszopiclone may be beneficial in promoting sleep.
Depression
Sometimes, tinnitus can be associated with depression, the Mayo Clinic says. Symptoms of depression include restlessness, agitation, fatigue, lack of energy, a change in appetite, trouble sleeping, a lack of energy and trouble concentrating, inactivity, withdrawal, hopelessness, sadness and helplessness.
Treatment for depression includes eating healthy meals, avoiding drugs and alcohol, exercising daily, sleeping well and having supportive relationships. Also, tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors can be used to manage depression, according to MedlinePlus.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety is another complication of tinnitus. The Mayo Clinic reports that symptoms of anxiety include worrying, muscle tensions and aches, nausea, diarrhea, shortness of breath, a rapid heartbeat, irritability, difficulty concentrating, restlessness and fatigue.
Certain medications such as buspirone, antidepressants and benzodiazepines can be used in combination with psychotherapy (talk therapy) to address anxiety.
