Hi
@shantelle,
Firstly, I'm so sorry that you're just beginning this journey. This can be so distracting and demoralizing, not to mention panic inducing and paralyzing. However, the good news is, it's not going to stay that way for very long.
Tinnitus is a neurological reaction to a biological phenomenon, and unfortunately, it is not a disease in and of itself. That said, as a symptom, it shares common attributes. Even though Tinnitus has several major causes (the most common cause being auditory damage through noise overexposure), it has a very similar pathology regardless of the cause. The first few weeks are a shock to the body, because the mind has no clue what it is interpreting and it internalizes this phantom sound as a threat -- the so-called "fight-or-flight" response. Regardless of whether or not this sound goes away, for most people, by the third month, the panic starts to fade away and instead, they learn to suppress their body's overreaction to this noise. Before this tranquilizing effect sets in, you're likely to go through a number of panic and stress-related activities:
- Hyperacousis, for the beginning of Tinnitus, is very common (though not universally experienced). Common, everyday sounds will be painful and distorted and cause you distress. When this happens, use hearing protection and listen to sounds at very low volumes. This will probably go away within a couple of weeks once you start experiencing it.
- Dizziness and paresthesia (tingling sensations) are uncommon, but are factors for people who suffer from panic, anxiety, and severe stress. Drinking plenty of water and getting good sleep (at least 8-9 hours a night) will help alleviate these symptoms.
- Finally, the Tinnitus itself can be debilitating if you focus on it or if it distracts you. Masking is going to be your best friend. Everyone recommends this, but not everyone follows it (especially because many people hope that it will just go away). Trust me when I say that masking does not hurt your chances of healing from Tinnitus, or a spontaneous remission -- it can only help preserve your sanity. If you're having a very hard time sleeping and still find yourself focusing on Tinnitus, consider a very mild anti-anxiety med or sedative at night, using the minimal therapeutic dosage your doctors recommend.
Finally, the good news is that because it's very early for you, your Tinnitus
will improve with time, and it is entirely possible that it can go away on its own. Do not lose hope - instead, protect your hearing now, invest in good over-ear silencing headphones (I don't recommend earplugs, because these have been known to exacerbate the problems for some people) that you wear during the day, and use light masking at night. With plenty of sleep, proper nutrition and exercise, within a few weeks, you will notice improvements and you will find your Tinnitus lessening.
I will keep you in my thoughts and wish you quieter days ahead!