- Dec 15, 2024
- 1
- Tinnitus Since
- 11/2024
- Cause of Tinnitus
- TTTS? Stress? Hyperacusis?
So here goes...
Four months ago, my world turned upside down after an anxiety attack left me with chest pains, shooting pains, heart palpitations, stomach pain, and, bizarrely, hyperacusis in my left ear only. Over the following weeks, I worked hard to eliminate any physical causes and focused on recovery through CBT, mindfulness, and acceptance. Within two months, I felt I had recovered well. While the hyperacusis remained, it didn't stop me from living my life—I was going out, socialising, and exercising as I had before.
Then, during the Halloween period, I went to the cinema twice, attended a noisy bar, participated in a HIIT class with loud music, and watched a fireworks display. (I know what you're thinking—far too soon!) I now believe I exposed myself to sound too early, possibly while my nervous system was still highly sensitised. That said, I didn't feel any immediate discomfort or pain during or after these events. Instead, my new symptoms began to gradually appear over the following weeks and have persisted now for the past three weeks:
Anxiety's Role in My Journey
Anxiety has been a significant factor throughout this process. My symptoms began following an acute anxiety episode, and I strongly suspect that my heightened nervous system continues to influence how my body reacts to sound. Right now, I feel like I'm at my lowest, unsure whether things will worsen before they (hopefully) improve.
That said, I try to keep perspective. I've read stories of much more severe cases, and while my symptoms are challenging, I'm grateful they're not as debilitating as they could be. I remind myself to show gratitude and remain hopeful.
My Current Focus
What I'm Struggling With
Does any of this resonate with you? Have you experienced similar symptoms? Any ideas about what I might be dealing with or how to move forward? Most importantly, I would deeply appreciate any encouragement or positive stories—hearing that others have overcome similar challenges would mean the world to me.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this!
Shaun
Four months ago, my world turned upside down after an anxiety attack left me with chest pains, shooting pains, heart palpitations, stomach pain, and, bizarrely, hyperacusis in my left ear only. Over the following weeks, I worked hard to eliminate any physical causes and focused on recovery through CBT, mindfulness, and acceptance. Within two months, I felt I had recovered well. While the hyperacusis remained, it didn't stop me from living my life—I was going out, socialising, and exercising as I had before.
Then, during the Halloween period, I went to the cinema twice, attended a noisy bar, participated in a HIIT class with loud music, and watched a fireworks display. (I know what you're thinking—far too soon!) I now believe I exposed myself to sound too early, possibly while my nervous system was still highly sensitised. That said, I didn't feel any immediate discomfort or pain during or after these events. Instead, my new symptoms began to gradually appear over the following weeks and have persisted now for the past three weeks:
- Persistent ear fullness/pressure (both ears) when exposed to sounds.
- Head/neck tension triggered by everyday sound exposure.
- Mild, high-pitched tinnitus (predominantly on one side, but not constant).
- Ear pain directly from sound (e.g., as seen with pain hyperacusis).
- Fluttering, spasms, or clicking in my ears (commonly linked to TTTS).
- Muffled or distorted hearing, aside from the sensation of fullness.
Anxiety's Role in My Journey
Anxiety has been a significant factor throughout this process. My symptoms began following an acute anxiety episode, and I strongly suspect that my heightened nervous system continues to influence how my body reacts to sound. Right now, I feel like I'm at my lowest, unsure whether things will worsen before they (hopefully) improve.
That said, I try to keep perspective. I've read stories of much more severe cases, and while my symptoms are challenging, I'm grateful they're not as debilitating as they could be. I remind myself to show gratitude and remain hopeful.
My Current Focus
- Calming my nervous system through mindfulness, CBT, and acceptance.
- Gradual sound exposure (though I haven't perfected a strategy yet) and using earplugs when necessary.
- Living as fully as I can despite the challenges.
What I'm Struggling With
- Fear of losing my job: I work from home, but the idea of returning to the office fills me with dread.
- Worrying about the future: I have three kids under 10, and I often wonder how this will affect my ability to be present for them.
- Constantly seeking answers: Problem-solving is part of who I am, but I know this situation requires a different mindset—less control, more acceptance.
Does any of this resonate with you? Have you experienced similar symptoms? Any ideas about what I might be dealing with or how to move forward? Most importantly, I would deeply appreciate any encouragement or positive stories—hearing that others have overcome similar challenges would mean the world to me.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this!
Shaun
