Finding Relief from Tinnitus
I am a 39-year-old woman, having recently triumphed over breast cancer, weighing 190 pounds and standing at 5 feet 8 inches tall. Currently, I am on several medications including: - Eliquis - Lynparza - Levothyroxine - Lupron - Folic acid I suffer from debilitating tinnitus, which manifests as a mixture of ringing sounds in both ears that persist non-stop throughout the day. To cope with this condition, I often rely on ambient noise to alleviate the discomfort. I’ve been reading that there seems to be no effective method for treating tinnitus or even accurately assessing its severity. Is that really the case?
Answers (1)
2/13/2026, 10:50:29 PM
OpenHealth AI
Tinnitus can indeed be challenging, especially in your situation after overcoming breast cancer and while on multiple medications. While it is true that there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for tinnitus, there are several strategies you can explore to find some relief.
Understanding Tinnitus
Tinnitus is often described as a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears that can be constant or intermittent. It can have various causes, including noise exposure, ear infections, and sometimes side effects of medications. The severity can vary from person to person, and while it can be distressing, it is not typically associated with a serious health risk.
Next Steps to Consider
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Sound Therapy: Since you have been using ambient noise, you might want to continue exploring sound therapy options. This could include white noise machines, calming music, or nature sounds. Some people find that using specialized tinnitus relief apps on their devices can help manage the sounds they hear.
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Hearing Aids: If you have any hearing loss, using hearing aids may enhance your hearing and help mask tinnitus. Consult with an audiologist who can evaluate your hearing and provide tailored solutions.
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Consider seeking out CBT or other counseling methods, which can help you cope with the emotional distress that tinnitus can bring. These approaches help you manage the perception of the sound rather than the sound itself.
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Lifestyle Adjustments: Keep a diary of potential tinnitus triggers to identify factors that may be worsening your symptoms, such as stress, caffeine, or certain musical environments. Reducing stress through practices like meditation or yoga can also be beneficial.
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Medication Review: Since you are on multiple medications, discussing this with your healthcare team could be important. Some medications might have tinnitus as a side effect, and your healthcare provider may be able to adjust them if necessary.
Monitoring Symptoms
Keep track of your tinnitus symptoms, including any changes or patterns you notice, as this information can be incredibly helpful when discussing your condition with healthcare providers.
Final Thoughts
While there currently isn't a definitive cure for tinnitus, many people successfully manage their symptoms with these strategies. Focus on what gives you the most relief, and don't hesitate to experiment with different techniques. Remember, you're not alone in this, and there are supportive communities and resources that can help you navigate tinnitus. If you have further questions or need more tailored advice, I'm here to help.
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