Prevent Tinnitus By Protecting Your Ears, Brain, & Body

Tinnitus is a condition defined by abnormal noise in the ear that is only heard by the person and not by other people surrounding them. Currently there are several reasons why tinnitus may occur but no active cure for it. Approximately 36 million Americans suffer with symptoms of tinnitus. Presently treatments are anchored around lessening the severity of tinnitus symptoms. In some cases of tinnitus, the symptoms may simple go away on its own. However if symptoms persist, treatment will be prescribed to mask the symptoms and cause of tinnitus. At this time the best treatment for tinnitus is prevention. Protecting your body, brain and ears now can help avoid the occurrence of tinnitus in later years. The best way to prevent tinnitus is through nutrition, exercise, and stress management. Properly maintaining a healthy diet controls blood pressure, cholesterol and hormone and vitamin levels. Minimize sodium (salt) intake, which reduces blood pressure. Avoid foods that are active nerve stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine. In addition alcohol should be avoided because it depresses the central nervous systems ability to function. Exercise keeps the body strong, maintains body weight, and reduces stress. Thirty minutes of exercise a day can adequately reduce stress, anxiety and depression, reduce blood pressure and cholesterol and reduces the risk for disease such as atherosclerosis, heart disease and dementia. Make sure you get adequate sleep at least six- eight hours a night. Sleep allows your brain and body to reboot and restore motor neuron functioning. Manage your stress levels. Avoid activities, events, or situations that can cause additional stress. Take time out for yourself. Do something you enjoy whether it is shopping, gardening, sewing, etc. Talk to a friend, family member or even therapist. If you prefer to write, start a journal to get your feelings expressed. Biofeedback is great way to reduce your own stress symptoms by learning to control your body’s functions. In addition always using proper ear protection is a must. Earplugs and earmuffs can be worn in loud environments and cold or windy weather. Using earphones and ear buds are okay as long as the music is kept at a low decibel. Following these guidelines to protect your ears and brain against damage and abnormalities.