My Tinnitus Becomes Calm in Silence and Aggravates After Noise Exposure — Is There Any Possibility of Healing?

[Possum]

I developed tinnitus a little over two weeks ago and am still unsure of the cause, though I have some ideas:

1. Job-related noise: I've been working in a factory for a month. The environment includes loud industrial fans and grinders. From the first day, I've worn foam earplugs and earmuffs. However, there was one day when I wore only earmuffs, without earplugs.
2. Excess earwax: A doctor noted that I have a buildup of earwax, which could be contributing to the issue.

My Current Situation

I've had to take time off work because the ringing became overwhelming. After resting for a few days, I've noticed the tinnitus has decreased significantly in intensity. Sometimes, it feels like it's barely there. However, I've experienced dysacusis in my right ear when exposed to certain sounds, such as flushing the toilet.

When I go to public places—especially those with music playing or announcements—the ringing intensifies after I get home. It's very reactive to sound.

My Questions

At this stage, is it possible to recover from tinnitus? I feel like I'm in the early stages of a condition where I need to be extremely careful to avoid worsening the problem. Am I causing permanent damage by continuing to expose myself to these noisy environments, or is the ringing merely a symptom of damage that's already done?

Public places I visit are generally below the danger decibel limit and are considered safe for people with normal hearing. Does that mean they are harmless for me, or should I treat my situation differently?

Healing and Noise Exposure

I've heard that tinnitus can heal itself if you avoid noisy environments for several months. Is that true, or just a myth? This idea reminds me of how bone fractures heal—you're supposed to rest and avoid any activity that stresses the injury. Could the ears work in a similar way?

Additional Info About My Job and Hearing Protection

Although I use hearing protection, it's not optimal. I have small ear canals but only have access to standard-sized foam earplugs. They don't fit perfectly and don't block sound as effectively as they should. My earmuffs, which have PVC cups, are not as effective as those with gel pads. While it's better than no protection, it's far from ideal.

Thoughts?

Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Brain Damaged]

Although I use hearing protection, it's not optimal. I have small ear canals but only have access to standard-sized foam earplugs. They don't fit perfectly and don't block sound as effectively as they should.

I'm very particular about my ear protection. I had molds made from my ear canals so an audiologist could create perfectly fitting earplugs. It was a worthwhile investment. I wear them to bed to block out my wife's loud snoring, which can cause severe headaches throughout the night. I also carry them with me wherever I go, just in case I need them.

When I travel by plane, I use my custom earplugs along with earmuffs like the kind shooters use for target practice. This combination works exceptionally well; I once tested it while seated next to a screaming child. While other passengers were visibly distressed, I managed to sleep through it.

Foam plugs don't work for me because they're too difficult to insert quickly. Instead, I use a set of swim earplugs that are quick, easy, and disposable. You can find them in drugstores, usually sold in pairs inside a plastic box. They're tapered for easy insertion and might be worth trying.

Good luck.

 

[Jupiterman]

1) At this stage, is it possible to recover from tinnitus?

Yes, at the early stages (up to around 3 months maximum), the ears can do a limited amount of healing, provided you do not expose to noise and that your tinnitus is mild.

2) Am I causing permanent damage by continuing to expose myself to these noisy environments, or is the ringing merely a symptom of damage that's already done?

To answer your question in another way: If you continue to expose to noisy environments, your tinnitus is almost certain to get worse.

3) Public places I visit are generally below the danger decibel limit and are considered safe for people with normal hearing. Does that mean they are harmless for me, or should I treat my situation differently?

In a word, no. Your ears are damaged and not as resilient as healthy ears.

Healing and Noise Exposure

4) I've heard that tinnitus can heal itself if you avoid noisy environments for several months. Is that true, or just a myth? This idea reminds me of how bone fractures heal—you're supposed to rest and avoid any activity that stresses the injury. Could the ears work in a similar way!

See answer to question 1).

Bones heal.

With the ears, there is a very limited amount of healing as people have reported a reduction of tinnitus in the early stages. However, after a few short months, this seems to stop, almost like the ears give up.

If your job gave you tinnitus, you may want to consider changing your careers.

I doubt your earwax has much to do with it. In fact, your earwax will be providing some natural protection from noise.