Tinnitus is a buzzing, clicking or ringing noise in your ears. Tinnitus affects everyone differently, but it can lead to stress, fatigue, anxiety, headaches and more. Many things can contribute to the development of tinnitus. Recently, research has found a link between traffic noise and tinnitus.
Tinnitus Risk Increases with Noise Levels
Although anyone can develop tinnitus, individuals exposed to noisy environments for long periods are at an elevated risk. Things like factory and construction noise, loud music and traffic can all contribute to the development of tinnitus and other ear issues.
How Can Traffic Cause Tinnitus?
A study on the effect of transportation noise on the development of tinnitus found a direct correlation between road traffic noise and the risk of tinnitus. Women, people without hearing loss, people with high education and income and people without blue-collar work experience were all at a higher risk.
How Can You Prevent Tinnitus?
Though traffic can heighten your risk of developing tinnitus, it is not the only risk factor. Exposure to other loud noises, listening to too high a volume on your headphones or wearing certain types of headphones can also make tinnitus more likely. A couple of ways you can help protect yourself against tinnitus include:
- Wear hearing protection. You can’t control all sound. You may be exposed to a high volume of traffic noise, music, construction and more, depending on where you live. Wearing ear protection such as earmuffs or covers can help limit your noise exposure and stress response. You can even pick up a white noise machine to mask traffic noise at Constellation Home Electronics.
- Turn down the volume on music and TV noise. Play your music and TV at a reasonably low volume. Most sounds under 70 decibels are acceptable. You can use online apps or websites to measure the decibels on your devices. Some brands of headphones even come with built-in ear protection alerts.
- Monitor cardiovascular health. Tinnitus is sometimes linked to high blood pressure and blood vessel disorders. Take care of your cardiovascular health by exercising and eating right.
- Limit alcohol, caffeine and nicotine. Avoiding these substances in excess can help prevent tinnitus by improving blood flow.
If you are experiencing symptoms of tinnitus or hearing loss, contact Southwestern Hearing & Balance to make an appointment today.