Temporary tinnitus is a common condition that affects a lot of people. It is characterized by a persistent ringing or buzzing sound in the ears even though there is no external source that could be causing it. This can be frustrating and can affect your daily activities. But how long does tinnitus last, and what can you do about it?
Types of tinnitus
tinnitus can be classified into two types: temporary and permanent. Temporary tinnitus usually occurs after exposure to loud noises, such as a concert or a construction site. It can also be caused by a sudden change in air pressure, such as when you go scuba diving or fly in an airplane. This type of tinnitus can last for a few hours to a few days, and it usually goes away on its own.
On the other hand, permanent tinnitus is a chronic condition that may be caused by damage to the ear from prolonged exposure to loud noises, infections, or earwax buildup. In this case, the ringing or buzzing sound in the ears may be constant and can last for months or even years.
How Long Does Temporary tinnitus Last?
Temporary tinnitus can last for a few hours or up to three days. This is because the ringing in the ears is caused by a temporary disturbance in the auditory system, making it reversible. The ringing or buzzing sound is usually louder after exposure to loud noises and may fade away over time.
What Can You Do About Temporary tinnitus?
1. Avoid Loud Noises
To avoid temporary tinnitus, it is essential to avoid loud noises. This includes setting the volume of your music or television at a safe level, wearing earplugs when exposed to loud noises, and taking breaks from loud environments.
2. Keep Your ears Clean
Earwax buildup can cause temporary tinnitus, so it is important to keep your ears clean. Use ear drops or rinse your ear with warm water to remove excess earwax.
3. Get Enough Sleep
Fatigue and stress can make tinnitus worse. To prevent temporary tinnitus, it is important to get enough rest and manage stress levels.
4. Seek Medical Attention
If the ringing in your ears does not go away after a few days, it is important to seek medical attention. Your doctor will perform a hearing test to determine the cause of the tinnitus. They may also prescribe medication or refer you to an audiologist for further testing.
In conclusion, temporary tinnitus can be caused by exposure to loud noises or sudden changes in air pressure. It usually lasts for a few hours to a few days and can be prevented by avoiding loud noises, cleaning your ears, managing stress levels, and getting enough sleep. If the ringing in your ears persists, make sure to seek medical attention.