The busy fall season of holidays, school events, midterms and finals is upon us. Those events could bring added stress. For those with tinnitus, this added stress can worsen stress-induced tinnitus.
Tinnitus, the perception of sounds like ringing or buzzing that aren’t present, has affected 10% of Americans. Here’s a look at common fall stressors and how they can contribute to worsening tinnitus symptoms, as well as some strategies for managing stress-induced tinnitus.
Common Fall Stressors
Fall marks the beginning of holiday season festivities, from Thanksgiving dinners to other holiday parties. The hustle and bustle, stress of deadlines and lack of rest can impact tinnitus symptoms. Events to consider that may increase stress or tinnitus symptoms in the fall include:
- School demands such as midterms, finals, sporting events and project deadlines
- End-of-year work deadlines
- Holiday parties
- Holiday shopping and budgeting
How Stress Impacts Tinnitus
Stress affects the body in various ways, and research shows tinnitus can be both caused by stress and existing tinnitus can be negatively impacted. This can also make tinnitus sounds seem louder or more persistent than usual.
Furthermore, stress can contribute to:
- Muscle tension, particularly in the neck and jaw, which may exacerbate tinnitus
- Increased fatigue, making it harder to cope with the persistent ringing
- Heightened sensitivity to noise, especially in busy or loud environments like Tucson Music Hall
Tips for Managing Tinnitus During Fall
With the season’s activities in full swing, it’s important to take steps to manage both stress and tinnitus.
Here are a few ways to keep symptoms in check:
- Prioritize quiet time: set aside time to decompress in a quiet environment. This helps lower stress levels and provides relief from sensory overload.
- Practice deep breathing and relaxation exercises: Techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness can be helpful in reducing stress-induced tinnitus. Even a few minutes each day can make a difference.
- Maintain a consistent sleep routine: With busy schedules, sleep can easily take a back seat. However, quality sleep is essential in managing tinnitus symptoms. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule and create a calm bedtime routine.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms in some people. With fall festivities in full swing, it’s easy to indulge, but moderation can go a long way in keeping symptoms manageable.
The fall season can be stressful, but with the right approach, you can manage stress-induced tinnitus and make the most of the season’s events. Tinnitus is also often tied to hearing loss, so if you’ve experienced tinnitus symptoms recently, consider scheduling a consultation with Arizona Hearing Specialists today.