Since the “novel coronavirus” first began making news out of China in January, a ripple effect has taken place around the globe. Over time, governments of many countries have ordered residents to shelter in place, closed millions of businesses, and dramatically altered the lives of people worldwide.
Practically overnight, the world became a much quieter place for most people. The one exception is those living with tinnitus.
Defining Tinnitus and Why It’s Suddenly Gotten Worse For Some
Tinnitus is a brain-based audiological condition that causes sufferers to hear ringing, buzzing, and other sounds in their ears that no one else hears. This debilitating condition affects up to 20 percent of the world’s population. Tinnitus is not a medical disorder but rather a symptom of a larger problem. Common examples include ear or head injuries, hearing loss related to aging, and circulatory system disorders. You can also check this guide by MedicalPrices.co.uk about hearing loss.
As the coronavirus made its way into the United States in late February and early March 2020, Google searches for terms like ear vibration and hum in ear began to increase. With so much background noise suddenly gone, it seems that many people began experiencing more loud and disturbing sounds related to tinnitus. This has also caused an increase in some of the other well-known symptoms of tinnitus such as anxiety and depression.
While this can be extremely distressing to experience, tinnitus sufferers can find relief through a range of products that typically don’t require a prescription from the doctor. For example, those who already deal with anxiety or depression should ask their provider for a 90-day supply to ensure they do not run out while staying home. Making self-care a priority helps people feel more in control of their health at a time when they may feel little control over their own life.
Consider These Technology Products To Help With Tinnitus
The products described in this section had each received high consumer ratings prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. They should be even more useful now that much of the world has gone quiet and the troubling sounds of tinnitus get louder.
- Tinnitus Relaxer from Puretone Naturecare: This comes equipped with seven relaxing sounds from nature that can help to drown out the unwanted sounds of tinnitus. Users can set it in 30-minute increments or allow it to play continuously throughout the day or night.
- Stereo Sound Pillow from Sensorcom: The sound insert from this device fits into any pillow. Users can connect it to the radio, a tinnitus relaxer device, smartphone, or MP3 player to hear soothing sounds through wireless headphones. This provides relief for the tinnitus sufferer without keeping anyone else awake.
- Nuheara IQbuds: Designed to bridge the gap between wireless earbuds and hearing aids, Nuheara’s IQbuds also enable users to block outside sound, or blend it with digital audio to their liking. These smart earbuds work best when paired with sound therapy applications to create pleasant sounds that counteract the humming, ringing, or buzzing sounds of tinnitus.
The shelter in place orders from COVID-19 will eventually end. In the meantime, it’s good to know that useful technology is available to live more comfortably with tinnitus.
