Millions of people in America suffer from ringing in ears that either continues without end or stops and starts again. The condition is most prevalent in white individuals. The medical term for ringing in the ears is known as tinnitus. Tinnitus can occur in the brain, the inner, middle or outer ear. When any of these parts of the ear or the brain become damaged, the result can be a variety of irritating sounds. The most common sounds include roaring, hissing, buzzing, whistling and ringing that can only be heard by the one with the condition. Sounds may be heard in one or both ears. Those who suffer from the tinnitus may experience several of these sounds which can range from a mildly annoying irritation to a severely painful condition that includes headaches and dizziness.

Common causes are Meniere’s disease, flus, colds, allergies, excessive ear wax, head injury, ear infection, stress, poor circulation, hypothyroidism and noisy environments. Tinnitus can also be caused by high blood pressure, anemia and hardening of the arteries. If any of these three conditions are the cause, the only treatment is by addressing and improving the underlying condition. Medications that have been found to cause tinnitus include antibiotics, antidepressants, sedatives, anti-inflammatories and aspirin. If the condition is only the result of one of these medications, reducing the dosage or changing the medication usually eliminates the problem. Tinnitus has been found to be so severe in nearly one million cases that these individuals are unable to work, sleep or hear.

The first step in treating tinnitus is to eliminate all possible factors that may be causing or irritating the condition. Treating underlying conditions such as allergies, inflammation and infections will help reduce symptoms of tinnitus. Eliminate processed foods, saturated fats, simple sugars, caffeine and limit salt intake because these foods have be found to aggravate the conditions. Replacing an unhealthy diet with a diet high in raw fruits, vegetables and whole grains will directly and indirectly help improve symptoms. Get plenty of deep sleep and exercise regularly. When a persons body is fatigued due to lack of sleep or low metabolism the symptoms tend to get worse. It is also important to avoid loud noises and sounds. If you work in a noisy environment, always wear ear protection. Seeing an improvement can take time so while you are waiting there are some things you can do to cope with tinnitus. If you find ear noise gets worse before bed, playing soft music or other soothing sounds will mask the noise, help you to relax and get a good night sleep. Many people with this condition have reported that propping up the pillow can decrease symptoms.

There are alternative treatments available which have been successful in treating certain types of tinnitus which include ginkgo biloba, sesame seeds, golden seal, black cohosh, zinc, lesser periwinkle (this herb should be used with the guidance of a natural health care professional), fenugreek seed tea, sunflower seeds, onion juice, castor oil, horsetail, passion flower, ransom juice, plantain, mistletoe tea, vitamin A, B complex, pantothenic acid,C, E, CoQ10 and choline. Ear candling can be used to remove excess wax from the ear.