Why YSK: I’m 18 and have dealt with tinnitus for over a year. It’s miserable; all I want is to experience true silence again. Make sure to use ear protection at concerts or in loud environments. Be smart with your headphone volume. Blasting music for hours isn’t worth the cost. You’re basically sentencing yourself to a lifetime of annoyance. If you’re curious about what it’s like, check out this (the sound starts at 1:23). Please stop now; your future self will be grateful.
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Pro tip: If you use an iPhone with earbuds, there’s a setting in iOS to cap the decibel level. I’m not sure if it prevents tinnitus specifically, but it’s designed to protect against general hearing loss.
I’ve had tinnitus for 18 years now following my military service. I know it’s permanent. I truly miss the sound of total silence. There are moments when the noise is so overwhelming I just want it all to end.
To be honest, I’ve had tinnitus since I was a kid, so I never realized how distressing it could be for others.
I understand your pain. Mine started in 2019, and it’s been a struggle ever since. Honestly, the most helpful thing I did was unsubscribe from r/Tinnitus. Not being constantly reminded of it helped me cope. I’ve tried plenty of remedies, but nothing has really worked. I really wish I’d been more careful. Thanks for spreading the word; it really is the worst.
Check this out: https://youtu.be/u9Dg-g7t2l4
I struggled with tinnitus for two and a half years (it sounded like the second clip in that video). I lived in NYC for 16 years, but since moving away a few weeks ago, the ringing has vanished. Sometimes it isn’t about loud music; it’s just living in a noisy environment.
OP, I’ve lived with this for decades. Trust me, it becomes easier to ignore over time. Nowadays, I only really notice it when I’m exhausted. There are various treatments available, and scientists have made some real progress toward a cure (Irish-made tinnitus device cuts symptoms in 80% of patients – The Irish Times). White noise is okay, but I suggest listening to Charles Mingus’s Ah Um. It’s complex, but focusing on the different instruments really helps manage the tinnitus and introduces you to great jazz. I’ve also found that taking EarfixPro helps keep things manageable. Stay strong.
My mother got this because of her job. This year, she’s getting hearing aids that have a specific setting to mask the tinnitus and help with her hearing loss. It’s such a tough situation. I’m really sorry you’re dealing with this!
Definitely. Just one instance of extreme volume can mess up your hearing for good. Back when I was 14, I spent a day at a trap range without any plugs. Someone fired a shotgun too close to me, and that blast left me with ringing that still comes and goes four years later. Spending the whole day shooting without protection certainly made things worse.
I totally feel for you (mine started 11 years ago after a skydiving mishap). For what it’s worth, like someone else mentioned, you eventually habituate. It’s a shame you have to go through this, but your brain will eventually learn to tune it out when you aren’t focused on it. It’s similar to how your brain ignores the sight of your own nose unless you’re looking for it. That’s been my path, at least.
My apologies, I couldn’t catch that over the annoying C# ringing in my right ear. What was that?