A study by the Henry Ford hospital in Detroit, has found that insomnia can lead to an increase in the severity of tinnitus, which is a buzzing, hissing or clicking sound heard in the ears.

Tinnitus affects the sufferers cognitive, emotional and psycho-physiological processes which increases the patient’s distress. Insomnia then decreases the tolerance threshold of the tinnitus. Although the exact cause of tinnitus is not known, things such as exposure to loud noise, wax build, some medical conditions and certain chemicals can trigger or worsen tinnitus.

Previous studies have also shown a link between tinnitus and other psychological disturbances. Participants in the study had their tinnitus and insomnia assessed and the higher they rated on the tinnitus reaction scale, the worse their insomnia was found to be. This then becomes something of a vicious circle as lack of sleep has also been found to contribute to tinnitus problems. 

Some patients find it so disturbing that they then begin to suffer from depression and anxiety and often require medical intervention. This study highlights the importance of evaluating tinnitus effectively and dealing with the consequences before they lead to other health issues.

For more information on tinnitus and treatment options please contact Connect Hearing on 1300 362 231.

Author: Tanya Wilson

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