Tinnitus remedies for Meniere’s disease warriors

Tinnitus, often referred to as ear ringing, is a common symptom of Meniere's disease. This distressing symptom affects up to 94% of those suffering from MD and is considered an important symptom by 37% [1]. Tinnitus can significantly impact various aspects of life, leading to anxiety, difficulty sleeping, irritability, challenges with hearing and comprehension, trouble concentrating, and fatigue.

Finding effective ways to manage tinnitus is crucial for improving your quality of life. Understanding the various strategies available can empower you to take control of this challenging symptom.

Let’s talk about ways you can improve tinnitus:

• Diet. Follow a nutritious, low-sodium, primarily whole-food diet, and ensure you drink plenty of water while limiting caffeine and alcohol. This approach can help lower fluid pressure in the inner ear, aiding in symptom management. Aim for balanced and regular meals to prevent blood sugar spikes that could exacerbate tinnitus. [2]

• Sound generators and masking devices. Masking devices are small, electronic devices that fit in the ear and produce a low-level white noise to suppress tinnitus. You can also use a device to play sounds like rain, waves, or white noise from a radio, fan or humidifier to help you relax or sleep. [3]

• Hearing aids. If you have hearing loss, hearing aids can sometimes amplify external sounds and make tinnitus less noticeable. [4]

• Tinnitus retraining therapy. This therapy combines counseling, education, and sound therapy to help people habituate to tinnitus. I haven’t personally tried it, but heard great things from other MD warriors who did. [5]

• Exercise and posture. Bad posture, even though it is not the cause of tinnitus in MD patients, can worsen blood circulation and affect the cranial nerve, which can exacerbate tinnitus. Regular exercise can potentially improve tinnitus by increasing blood flow, but there isn’t a lot of research on this. Either way, working out is amazing for you—it can help with stress, depression, and sleep, which can all help with tinnitus.

• Relaxation. Stress can worsen tinnitus, so lowering your stress levels can help. [6] You can try relaxation apps, meditation, or soft music.

• Medications. Diuretics and Bethahistine may help improve tinnitus. [7] Certain medications may cause tinnitus. Review your medications with your doctor to see if any concerns. Never discontinue taking medication without a doctor’s supervision.

• Try herbs. Certain herbal remedies can improve tinnitus. Please make sure to contact your doctor before starting any new treatment.

  • Sorbus domestica is a plant growing in Europe, northwest Africa, and southwest used to improve circulation, lymphatic drainage, and tinnitus. A small study conducted on MD patients showed improvement both in tinnitus and hearing. It has an excellent safety profile but check with your doctor before trying it. [8]

  • Ginkgo biloba. The studies on the efficacy of ginkgo biloba on tinnitus are mixed (even though I know MD warriors who swear by it!). It can still be helpful for improving cognitive function but can cause some side effects in some people.

  • Acai berries- in one study oral antioxidant supplementation, consisting of açaí extract, improved tinnitus. [9]

  • Ginseng- in one study ginseng supplementation showed a significant reduction in tinnitus. [10]

• Consider alternative therapies. Sound therapy, acupuncture, and mindfulness meditation can be helpful.

• Protect your hearing. Limit your exposure to loud noises.

  Managing tinnitus for those with Meniere's disease, can be a complex and ongoing journey. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, and what works for one person may not work for another. By exploring a combination of dietary changes, sound therapy, hearing aids, relaxation techniques, and herbal remedies, you can find strategies that best suit your needs.

  Additionally, consulting with healthcare professionals who understand the nuances of tinnitus can provide support and guidance. Keeping an open mind about alternative therapies and lifestyle adjustments can lead to significant improvements in managing this challenging symptom.

  Ultimately, while tinnitus can be distressing, it does not have to dictate the quality of your life. By taking proactive steps and staying informed about the latest management techniques, you can regain a sense of control and enhance your overall well-being. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and support is available—both from professionals and fellow warriors navigating similar challenges.