Tinnitus, commonly known as "ringing in the ears," occurs when you hear sound "inside" your ears that cannot be accounted for by noise in your immediate environment or that cannot be heard by others. For some, it sounds like static or a low roar, and, for others, it sounds like a high squeal. Duration varies by person; the sound may be always-present for a particular span of time, or it may come and go over time.
Prescription Medications
If you experience ear ringing on a regular basis or for a prolonged period of time, you may need to take a prescription medication. The Mayo Clinic says that your doctor may prescribe a tricyclic antidepressant, which is used to treat ear ringing, Xanax, or Campral. These medications can cause severe side effects, so it is important to follow your doctor's instructions.
Masking of Sound
In some cases, the tinnitus will improve on its own. In the meantime, you can make attempts to mask the sound you are hearing. Turning on a small fan or listening to soft music or low volume radio static can be helpful in masking the sound, allowing you to relax or fall asleep.
Avoid Noise Irritants
To prevent further damage or prolonging symptoms, you should avoid loud noises, such as loud music or high volume from a television. If you are experiencing tinnitus, your judgment of sound may be impaired, so it can be difficult to identify safe volume levels.
Avoid Getting Liquid in Your Ears
You should avoid getting liquid in your ears. This can be difficult when showering or washing your hair, but it is important, especially while you are experiencing symptoms. The Mayo Clinic states that tinnitus is not necessarily a distinct condition but a symptom or result of another condition or illness. If an infection or injury is causing the ringing in your ears, liquid can spread dirt or potentially harmful bacteria to other parts of the ear.
Lifestyle Changes
Avoid alcohol while experiencing symptoms. Alcohol causes the blood vessels in the inner ear to dilate. This can exacerbate your symptoms. It is equally important to manage stress. Stress can create tightness around the head and neck, which, subsequently, creates pressure in the ears.
