Tinnitus facts for kids
Tinnitus is when you hear sounds in your ears or head that aren't coming from outside. It's like your brain is making its own noises! Many people describe it as a ringing, buzzing, hissing, or whistling sound. But it can also be like roaring or humming.
These sounds can be loud or quiet. They might happen all the time or just sometimes. For some people, tinnitus is barely noticeable. But for others, especially when they are tired or stressed, it can be quite annoying. Tinnitus is not a disease itself, but it's often a sign that something else is going on with your hearing or health.
What Causes Tinnitus?
Many different things can lead to someone experiencing tinnitus. Here are some of the main reasons:
- Loud Noises: Being around very loud sounds, like at a concert or from loud headphones, can damage your ears and cause tinnitus.
- Stress: Feeling very stressed or anxious can sometimes make tinnitus appear or seem worse.
- Getting Older: As people get older, their hearing naturally changes, and this can sometimes include tinnitus.
- Certain Health Issues: Some health conditions can be linked to tinnitus.
- Some Medicines: A few types of medicines can have tinnitus as a side effect.
How to Manage Tinnitus
Even though tinnitus is a symptom and not a disease, there are ways to help manage it and make it less bothersome. People of all ages can experience tinnitus.
Here are some things that can help:
- Relaxation: Doing things like yoga or other relaxing activities can help reduce stress, which might make tinnitus feel less intense.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity is good for your overall health and can help you feel better, which might also help with tinnitus.
- Sound Therapy: Sometimes, playing a soft background noise, like gentle music or a fan, can help cover up the tinnitus sounds. This makes the "phantom" noise less noticeable.
- Community Support: Joining a group or community of people who also have tinnitus can be helpful. Sharing experiences and tips can make you feel less alone.
See also
- In Spanish: Tinnitus para niños
