Reactive Tinnitus and Sound Distortions: How to Move Forward?

[Kraazy]

Hello everyone,

My Health Journey:

I have been living with tinnitus and hyperacusis for 12 years, but I've managed to overcome them, particularly hyperacusis, where everyday noises no longer bother me (except for washing dishes and vacuuming). I was so proud of myself for being able to live happily!

For almost a year, I also dealt with ear spasms (myoclonus) triggered by burping, yawning, or stretching. Magnesium bisglycinate helped me significantly, and now I experience very few spasms. Additionally, I had a "reflex" in my ears when I spoke or when something fell. I thought this was due to my hyperacusis, which has also since improved (possibly TTTS?).

In late June 2024, I decided to do some health tests for my 30th birthday, including a urine test, as I wanted to get an overall picture of my health. Unfortunately, I tested positive for an STI, which explained the urinary pain I had been experiencing. My doctor prescribed a 14-day course of Doxycycline (200 mg per day). During these 14 days, I experienced occasional spikes in my tinnitus.

Sadly, at the end of the treatment, my pain persisted. I returned to my doctor, who then prescribed 28 more days of Doxycycline. During this second course, my symptoms initially disappeared. However, on the 25th day, the pain returned, and I was devastated. I experienced severe stress, anxiety attacks, and overwhelming fear that I might have to live with this forever. I spent sleepless nights reading through forums and dark stories online.

Now, three weeks after completing the second treatment, I've started experiencing sound distortions. This has caused me immense worry, as I fear this may be permanent. Usually, background noise masks my tinnitus, but now it feels like the opposite.

At home, I can't do anything without my tinnitus reacting to real-time noises, only stopping when the sound source is turned off. Everyday sounds like water, wind, rain, my breathing, movements, air conditioning, fans, cars, and the TV all seem to aggravate my tinnitus, and it's exhausting.

I can't seem to stop fixating on these phenomena. I try going outside to get some fresh air and stay active, but as soon as I return home, my morale plummets. I've been living in silence, but I'm unsure if that's the right approach.

My family doesn't understand what I'm going through, and they continue making noise in the house. With each sound, my tinnitus spikes (for example, the TV in the living room is 50 meters away from my bedroom, and even with the door closed, the TV's frequencies seem to pass through. I feel like I have superhuman hearing, like Superman with superpowers).

I desperately need advice on how to stop fixating on all the noise in my life.

• Is this condition curable?
• Should I try to live normally?
• Should I protect myself from noise all the time?
• Should I live in silence?
• Did my treatment damage my ears? Or is it due to stress or anxiety?
• Should I take any medication? I'm already taking Magnesium bisglycinate (800 mg) and probiotics. I tried NAC (600 mg), but my tinnitus increased the day after my first dose, so I stopped. I also drink Chamomile herbal tea to help me sleep.

Here is a video that explains what I hear (please be mindful of the volume):



I'm feeling completely lost and anxious about going through all of this. I need help so much. Thank you, everyone.

 

[Kraazy]

Yesterday, while I was walking in the park, I noticed some people behind me. When I turned around, I suddenly heard a beeping sound in my right ear.

Just now, as I was watching a video on Twitch, I heard beeping sounds again.

I don't know if this is normal, but I'm so frustrated. I'm done :'(

 

[Cmspgran]

I've experienced the exact same sound distortions shown in that video. They can be both frightening and alarming. Some practitioners believe it's related to hyperacusis, but no one really knows for sure. The good news is that these distortions tend to improve over time. Mine have gotten better, but it took about a year, and some days, they still persist.

 

[Pinhead]

Yes, this is similar to my situation. It's been three and a half years, and it has only gotten worse. Nothing has helped, and I can barely function.

 

[Kraazy]

Thank you for your responses, everyone. How do I get this to regenerate? @Cmspgran's condition has improved, but @Pinhead's has not.

Is there an explanation for this? How can I be sure I'm on the right path to recovery? Do you have any advice for me, or is it just a game of Russian roulette?

Today, I spent two hours at the park. The beeps I heard yesterday came from a few cars passing by on the street. There was also a man cutting wood, about 800 meters away, and I could still hear the frequency of the chainsaw.

On the one hand, it depresses me a bit, but on the other hand, I'm beginning to understand my problem.

Thank you again for your help. This is all new to me, and I am in a great deal of distress.

 

[benjd2016]

How do you get it to regenerate? You could consider taking a course of very high-dose steroids. I took 250 mg of Prednisolone per day for 3 days to get rid of the "noise" in my left ear, and it seems to have worked for the most part. You could also consider taking Pentoxifylline 400 mg three times a day for 3 days while you're on the steroids.

Mine was much worse in my right ear, but I had it for over a year in my left ear. It would make a "tinga-ling" noise when any high-pitched sound stopped, and sometimes it would go "tinga-ling-a-ling" constantly while high-pitched noises were present, such as a fan or motor running. It was bizarre.

 

[ErikaS]

Hey @Kraazy,

I'm so sorry to hear you're dealing with this. I, too, experienced distortions that were at their worst from May 2023 to November 2023. However, they did improve to the point where I honestly forgot about them because they became so mild. I even remember saying to myself in the shower, "Wow, the distortion from the water running is barely noticeable anymore." It seemed like the more improvement I saw, the better I felt, and the less I cared or monitored them closely. This improvement lasted from December 2023 through July 2024. Unfortunately, after some noisy events and intense stress and emotional challenges in July and August, the distortions returned and have become bothersome again.

Others in this forum have also experienced distortions and have noted that they tend to flare up during periods of high stress. In my own case, I saw significant improvement starting in December 2023 after I worked hard to calm my nervous system through therapy and dealt with some very stressful life circumstances, all while being mindful of my sound exposure.

I mention this because you shared that you experienced severe stress, anxiety attacks, etc., following your use of Doxycycline, which caused spikes. It sounds like a "perfect storm" where both factors—stress and the medication—played off each other.

So, what am I doing as I battle this for the second time?

• Staying home when I can, in a low-noise environment.
  
  
• Trying to break the impulsive cycle my brain falls into by fixating, monitoring, and judging the distortions. When I let my brain fixate, I'm reinforcing the idea that these sounds are not only important but dangerous, which causes a huge emotional response.
  
  
• Reminding myself that this *can* get better. My body and nervous system have been through a lot in a short time, so everything is heightened. I focus on resting when I can, distracting myself in healthy ways, and remembering that things improved before.
  
  
• Seeing a massage/bodywork therapist who specializes in the face, neck, and head areas (especially TMJ areas). Others with hyperacusis and reactive tinnitus have recently tried this and found some relief. I had a great therapist who really helped calm my system and had a positive effect on my spike, but she moved to another state. I'm seeing a new one soon.

I completely understand your panic and fear. I'm feeling it again myself, and I just returned to full-time work! But I know from my experience, and from the wise advice of others like @MindOverMatter, that stress, worry, and fear only fuel my tinnitus, reactivity, and distortions. I'm not saying these things caused my condition—I don't believe that—but they certainly exacerbate it. This is just my personal experience, and I respect that others may feel differently about their own situations.

Stay strong.

 

[Stanley Pickle]

Yesterday, while I was walking in the park, I noticed some people behind me. When I turned around, I suddenly heard a beeping sound in my right ear.

Just now, as I was watching a video on Twitch, I heard beeping sounds again.

I don't know if this is normal, but I'm so frustrated. I'm done :'(

I have a loud, nonstop ringing in both ears, but last November, I also started hearing a beeping sound in my right ear. It comes and goes, starting randomly without warning, and I never know when it will appear or disappear. At first, I thought it was triggered by my smoke alarm's low battery when the alarm began chirping. My conclusion was that my brain heard the sound and tried to mimic it.

It's scary! I feel your pain!

 

[BeepBeep]

I experienced sound distortions in one ear for several months following a somewhat loud accident. As I mentioned, it took several months for it to resolve. My advice is to make sure you avoid any exposure to loud noises during this time—wear earplugs if you're in a situation where an ambulance or other loud sounds might occur.

I was going to say to try to remember that it will probably go away soon, but I know that's easier said than done. I remember being in a dark place myself, just like you are now, freaking out. But if I were a betting man, I'd wager it will go away on its own. Honestly, I'd put money on it.

 

[Pinhead]

Hey @Kraazy,

• Seeing a massage/bodywork therapist who specializes in the face, neck, and head areas (especially TMJ areas). Others with hyperacusis and reactive tinnitus have recently tried this and found some relief. I had a great therapist who really helped calm my system and had a positive effect on my spike, but she moved to another state. I'm seeing a new one soon.

It's always interesting to see how what works for some can have the opposite effect on others. After my first two visits to a massage therapist, I nearly ended up institutionalized. It got so much worse that I couldn't bear it.

 

[Kraazy]

How do you get it to regenerate? You could consider taking a course of very high-dose steroids. I took 250 mg of Prednisolone per day for 3 days to get rid of the "noise" in my left ear, and it seems to have worked for the most part. You could also consider taking Pentoxifylline 400 mg three times a day for 3 days while you're on the steroids.

Mine was much worse in my right ear, but I had it for over a year in my left ear. It would make a "tinga-ling" noise when any high-pitched sound stopped, and sometimes it would go "tinga-ling-a-ling" constantly while high-pitched noises were present, such as a fan or motor running. It was bizarre.

Thank you for your feedback. Unfortunately, I've taken so many pills that my intestines are damaged. I really don't want to take any more medication.

It might seem like I'm avoiding treatment, especially with drugs like steroids, but I don't want to make my condition worse—it's already challenging enough. I also read that prednisolone can increase tinnitus, so I'd rather not risk trying it.

I have a loud, nonstop ringing in both ears, but last November, I also started hearing a beeping sound in my right ear. It comes and goes, starting randomly without warning, and I never know when it will appear or disappear. At first, I thought it was triggered by my smoke alarm's low battery when the alarm began chirping. My conclusion was that my brain heard the sound and tried to mimic it.

It's scary! I feel your pain!

I replayed the situation, and the beep I heard was actually from a truck in the distance backing up. It was loud, and I think I picked up that frequency when I turned my head to look at the people behind me.

However, I now have a new tinnitus sound, like a field of crickets, with a beep at the end. It doesn't bother me during the day, only in very quiet places, especially at night.

I hope it goes away.

Hey @Kraazy,

I'm so sorry to hear you're dealing with this. I, too, experienced distortions that were at their worst from May 2023 to November 2023. However, they did improve to the point where I honestly forgot about them because they became so mild. I even remember saying to myself in the shower, "Wow, the distortion from the water running is barely noticeable anymore." It seemed like the more improvement I saw, the better I felt, and the less I cared or monitored them closely. This improvement lasted from December 2023 through July 2024. Unfortunately, after some noisy events and intense stress and emotional challenges in July and August, the distortions returned and have become bothersome again.

Others in this forum have also experienced distortions and have noted that they tend to flare up during periods of high stress. In my own case, I saw significant improvement starting in December 2023 after I worked hard to calm my nervous system through therapy and dealt with some very stressful life circumstances, all while being mindful of my sound exposure.

I mention this because you shared that you experienced severe stress, anxiety attacks, etc., following your use of Doxycycline, which caused spikes. It sounds like a "perfect storm" where both factors—stress and the medication—played off each other.

So, what am I doing as I battle this for the second time?

• Staying home when I can, in a low-noise environment.
  
  
• Trying to break the impulsive cycle my brain falls into by fixating, monitoring, and judging the distortions. When I let my brain fixate, I'm reinforcing the idea that these sounds are not only important but dangerous, which causes a huge emotional response.
  
  
• Reminding myself that this *can* get better. My body and nervous system have been through a lot in a short time, so everything is heightened. I focus on resting when I can, distracting myself in healthy ways, and remembering that things improved before.
  
  
• Seeing a massage/bodywork therapist who specializes in the face, neck, and head areas (especially TMJ areas). Others with hyperacusis and reactive tinnitus have recently tried this and found some relief. I had a great therapist who really helped calm my system and had a positive effect on my spike, but she moved to another state. I'm seeing a new one soon.

I completely understand your panic and fear. I'm feeling it again myself, and I just returned to full-time work! But I know from my experience, and from the wise advice of others like @MindOverMatter, that stress, worry, and fear only fuel my tinnitus, reactivity, and distortions. I'm not saying these things caused my condition—I don't believe that—but they certainly exacerbate it. This is just my personal experience, and I respect that others may feel differently about their own situations.

Stay strong.

Thank you for your response; it reassures me. I understand now that my symptoms may be due to stress, and I need to try to focus less on them. Today, I went out, and I was worried that the noise from the cars might worsen my sound distortions. I managed not to focus on them, but when I entered a pharmacy, it was very noisy, so I wore my -25 dB ear protection. I have different levels of protection (-16 dB and -25 dB), and I'm unsure which ones to use. I also have noise-canceling headphones, which I often use because they're quicker to put on when something loud, like a motorcycle, happens unexpectedly.

The problem is, I don't want to develop sonophobia. I used to live so well before, and I only protected my ears in very noisy places. Should I continue this way?

Thank you for your advice. I'm also unsure what to think about massages. A week after my treatment, my osteopath tried to massage the area around my head, but it didn't improve my distortions.

I'm still taking probiotics, Magnesium, and Nettle infusions, but nothing seems to work. I'm worried that I may have experienced noise trauma during my treatment. I remember attending a party where dogs barked for a long time, and I didn't have any protection at the time.

I also recall, during my treatment, hearing my mother's voice strangely in my right ear, almost like there was a frequency I could no longer pick up. I didn't worry at the time and just continued with my life.

I plan to continue living as before, perhaps with a little more protection, but I don't want to relive those years of hyperacusis when I was afraid of every noise.

I experienced sound distortions in one ear for several months following a somewhat loud accident. As I mentioned, it took several months for it to resolve. My advice is to make sure you avoid any exposure to loud noises during this time—wear earplugs if you're in a situation where an ambulance or other loud sounds might occur.

I was going to say to try to remember that it will probably go away soon, but I know that's easier said than done. I remember being in a dark place myself, just like you are now, freaking out. But if I were a betting man, I'd wager it will go away on its own. Honestly, I'd put money on it.

Thank you for your kind words; they truly give me hope and a desire to keep going. I know I will overcome these distortions. I think it's still early for me to fully grasp the situation, but from everything I've read on forums, it seems that most of the time, you just have to be patient, and things return to normal.

I will take care to protect myself, but I'm also worried about overprotecting and potentially triggering my hyperacusis again.

 

[BeepBeep]

Thank you for your feedback. Unfortunately, I've taken so many pills that my intestines are damaged. I really don't want to take any more medication.

It might seem like I'm avoiding treatment, especially with drugs like steroids, but I don't want to make my condition worse—it's already challenging enough. I also read that prednisolone can increase tinnitus, so I'd rather not risk trying it.

I replayed the situation, and the beep I heard was actually from a truck in the distance backing up. It was loud, and I think I picked up that frequency when I turned my head to look at the people behind me.

However, I now have a new tinnitus sound, like a field of crickets, with a beep at the end. It doesn't bother me during the day, only in very quiet places, especially at night.

I hope it goes away.

Thank you for your response; it reassures me. I understand now that my symptoms may be due to stress, and I need to try to focus less on them. Today, I went out, and I was worried that the noise from the cars might worsen my sound distortions. I managed not to focus on them, but when I entered a pharmacy, it was very noisy, so I wore my -25 dB ear protection. I have different levels of protection (-16 dB and -25 dB), and I'm unsure which ones to use. I also have noise-canceling headphones, which I often use because they're quicker to put on when something loud, like a motorcycle, happens unexpectedly.

The problem is, I don't want to develop sonophobia. I used to live so well before, and I only protected my ears in very noisy places. Should I continue this way?

Thank you for your advice. I'm also unsure what to think about massages. A week after my treatment, my osteopath tried to massage the area around my head, but it didn't improve my distortions.

I'm still taking probiotics, Magnesium, and Nettle infusions, but nothing seems to work. I'm worried that I may have experienced noise trauma during my treatment. I remember attending a party where dogs barked for a long time, and I didn't have any protection at the time.

I also recall, during my treatment, hearing my mother's voice strangely in my right ear, almost like there was a frequency I could no longer pick up. I didn't worry at the time and just continued with my life.

I plan to continue living as before, perhaps with a little more protection, but I don't want to relive those years of hyperacusis when I was afraid of every noise.

Thank you for your kind words; they truly give me hope and a desire to keep going. I know I will overcome these distortions. I think it's still early for me to fully grasp the situation, but from everything I've read on forums, it seems that most of the time, you just have to be patient, and things return to normal.

I will take care to protect myself, but I'm also worried about overprotecting and potentially triggering my hyperacusis again.

Happy to help!

Here's my take on overprotection: It's easier to undo noise sensitivity than to deal with the damage caused by sudden loud noises, like when an ambulance whizzes by out of nowhere with a 120 dB siren blaring just three feet away from people. I've found that overprotection indoors can be a bit excessive, but when I'm outdoors in the city, I'm not taking any more chances. To each their own, though. I hope everything turns out well for you—and hopefully soon!

 

[Jupiterman]

Here's my take on overprotection: It's easier to undo noise sensitivity than to deal with the damage caused by sudden loud noises, like when an ambulance whizzes by out of nowhere with a 120 dB siren blaring just three feet away from people. I've found that overprotection indoors can be a bit excessive, but when I'm outdoors in the city, I'm not taking any more chances. To each their own, though. I hope everything turns out well for you—and hopefully soon!

Do you double-protect when out in the city?

 

[Kraazy]

Happy to help!

Here's my take on overprotection: It's easier to undo noise sensitivity than to deal with the damage caused by sudden loud noises, like when an ambulance whizzes by out of nowhere with a 120 dB siren blaring just three feet away from people. I've found that overprotection indoors can be a bit excessive, but when I'm outdoors in the city, I'm not taking any more chances. To each their own, though. I hope everything turns out well for you—and hopefully soon!

Okay, I'll wear protection when I'm on the street, but I'm avoiding the city at the moment since I live in the countryside. Otherwise, I use my Sony XM4 headphones with noise cancellation, though I'm not sure if they actually protect my ears.

Regarding music, should I continue listening to it at a very low volume, or should I avoid it entirely? (I'm listening on speakers.) The music doesn't sound right—the treble is distorted.

I'm so afraid this could be permanent hearing loss. I keep questioning why I took that medication and why I stressed so much over a small infection. I blame myself.

 

[BeepBeep]

Do you double-protect when out in the city?

Nah, just earplugs.

Regarding music, should I continue listening to it at a very low volume, or should I avoid it entirely? (I'm listening on speakers.) The music doesn't sound right—the treble is distorted.

I'm so afraid this could be permanent hearing loss. I keep questioning why I took that medication and why I stressed so much over a small infection. I blame myself.

Regarding music... I'm not really sure.

Try not to blame yourself. Over the course of a lifetime, most people need antibiotics for one reason or another at some point, so they take them. Adverse reactions are rare, and it's not your fault in any way, shape, or form.

 

[Kraazy]

Happy to help!

Here's my take on overprotection: It's easier to undo noise sensitivity than to deal with the damage caused by sudden loud noises, like when an ambulance whizzes by out of nowhere with a 120 dB siren blaring just three feet away from people. I've found that overprotection indoors can be a bit excessive, but when I'm outdoors in the city, I'm not taking any more chances. To each their own, though. I hope everything turns out well for you—and hopefully soon!

Okay, I'll follow your advice, but I can't stay in my room with zero noise—I feel like I'm going to go crazy. When I play video games, I keep the volume very low; my speakers are set to 20 or 10 on Windows, and the sound doesn't exceed 60 decibels. The speaker is about one meter away from me.

I'll continue to protect myself in noisy places, as I always have, and I'll also be careful in quieter environments, like when I'm in a car driving around the city or at the supermarket.

Yesterday marked one month since my distortions started. It made me feel a little sad.

 

[BeepBeep]

Okay, I'll follow your advice, but I can't stay in my room with zero noise—I feel like I'm going to go crazy. When I play video games, I keep the volume very low; my speakers are set to 20 or 10 on Windows, and the sound doesn't exceed 60 decibels. The speaker is about one meter away from me.

I'll continue to protect myself in noisy places, as I always have, and I'll also be careful in quieter environments, like when I'm in a car driving around the city or at the supermarket.

Yesterday marked one month since my distortions started. It made me feel a little sad.

Please keep in mind that I'm not a doctor, so take my advice cautiously. I believe my distortions lasted for about three months. Don't give up just yet—hang in there!

 

[ToriaM34]

Hey, I don't necessarily have any advice, but I just wanted to say thank you for posting because you seem to be going through exactly what I'm experiencing at the moment.

I've had a long and complicated history with tinnitus for over a decade now, which I've posted about over the years. I first started experiencing reactive tinnitus in late 2021, triggered by loud noise exposure. By early to mid-2022, I was feeling a lot better—the reactivity was still there but not as intense, and my brain was able to adjust and accept it.

I've had a really good couple of years, but unfortunately, I caught a cold last week, and since then, I've developed new reactive noises that I'm struggling to cope with. My cold has completely cleared up, but unfortunately, I haven't seen any improvement in my reactive tinnitus. It's only been about a week, so maybe I need to give it more time, but I'm feeling so deflated by yet another setback. I'm scared that my whole life will be like this. I'm also aware that the cause of my reactive tinnitus is different this time, so I don't know how that will affect whether it improves or not.

I don't really have any advice other than trying to remain grateful that at least my tinnitus is still tolerable in silence (I'd consider it on the louder side of mild), so I do get some reprieve. But I'm just so exhausted from this constant cycle of ups and downs, and I'm only 27.

Sorry to hijack your thread, but I hope it's reassuring to hear from someone going through something similar.

 

[orenge01]

Hey, I'm sorry to hear that.

I don't want to scare you, but I've been dealing with this ever since my tinnitus began two years ago. It has gotten better, but a few days ago, it flared up again like wildfire. Over time, it did improve, and the distortions lessened a lot, especially as I stopped focusing on them so much. But I still hear it, and it obviously sucks not to hear normally anymore. :/

I really hope yours isn't permanent and that it goes away for you. If it doesn't, I hope you find the best methods to habituate and cope with it. It's truly frustrating that this awful condition still has no cure.

 

[ToriaM34]

Hey, I'm sorry to hear that.

I don't want to scare you, but I've been dealing with this ever since my tinnitus began two years ago. It has gotten better, but a few days ago, it flared up again like wildfire. Over time, it did improve, and the distortions lessened a lot, especially as I stopped focusing on them so much. But I still hear it, and it obviously sucks not to hear normally anymore. :/

I really hope yours isn't permanent and that it goes away for you. If it doesn't, I hope you find the best methods to habituate and cope with it. It's truly frustrating that this awful condition still has no cure.

It sounds like your situation is similar to mine—I experienced some initial improvements and managed to adjust to the remaining reactive tinnitus, but things have recently gotten worse again. Fingers crossed that we both get through this once more.

 

[orenge01]

It sounds like your situation is similar to mine—I experienced some initial improvements and managed to adjust to the remaining reactive tinnitus, but things have recently gotten worse again. Fingers crossed that we both get through this once more.

I hope so too—thank you! Fingers crossed that this setback is only temporary.

 

[Kraazy]

Unfortunately, I feel like my condition is getting worse. I was doing well, but now I'm experiencing new tones that seem to change from day to day. I hear beeping sounds when exposed to high-pitched noises. For example, when my mother started her washing machine, the high-pitched noise sounded like rapid beeping to me. I asked her if she heard it, but she said no. That really depressed me.

Regarding the tonal changes, previously, when I rubbed my feet on the floor or my hands on a blanket or through my hair, I would hear a high-pitched ultrasound-like sound. Now, it sounds more like a distant vacuum cleaner. Even cars make that vacuum cleaner-like noise. Have any of you experienced similar changes in your tones?

I'm not sure what to think. The medication I took has damaged my hearing, and it makes me really sad. I don't know if I'll get through this.

I'm also unsure whether these tonal changes are normal or if my stress and anxiety are playing a role in this.

I'll be posting a video of the washing machine for anyone who wants to listen. I'd like to know if you hear the beeps too, but no pressure, there's no obligation.

Hey, I don't necessarily have any advice, but I just wanted to say thank you for posting because you seem to be going through exactly what I'm experiencing at the moment.

I've had a long and complicated history with tinnitus for over a decade now, which I've posted about over the years. I first started experiencing reactive tinnitus in late 2021, triggered by loud noise exposure. By early to mid-2022, I was feeling a lot better—the reactivity was still there but not as intense, and my brain was able to adjust and accept it.

I've had a really good couple of years, but unfortunately, I caught a cold last week, and since then, I've developed new reactive noises that I'm struggling to cope with. My cold has completely cleared up, but unfortunately, I haven't seen any improvement in my reactive tinnitus. It's only been about a week, so maybe I need to give it more time, but I'm feeling so deflated by yet another setback. I'm scared that my whole life will be like this. I'm also aware that the cause of my reactive tinnitus is different this time, so I don't know how that will affect whether it improves or not.

I don't really have any advice other than trying to remain grateful that at least my tinnitus is still tolerable in silence (I'd consider it on the louder side of mild), so I do get some reprieve. But I'm just so exhausted from this constant cycle of ups and downs, and I'm only 27.

Sorry to hijack your thread, but I hope it's reassuring to hear from someone going through something similar.

Thank you for your response, @ToriaM34.

I hope your condition improves. I am completely scared every day, and I experience new symptoms regularly. For example, I didn't have the beeping sounds two weeks ago, but now I do. I don't know why, especially since I stay at home and only play very, very low music. I really hope that's not what's causing the beeps.

This situation scares me a lot.

Hey, I'm sorry to hear that.

I don't want to scare you, but I've been dealing with this ever since my tinnitus began two years ago. It has gotten better, but a few days ago, it flared up again like wildfire. Over time, it did improve, and the distortions lessened a lot, especially as I stopped focusing on them so much. But I still hear it, and it obviously sucks not to hear normally anymore. :/

I really hope yours isn't permanent and that it goes away for you. If it doesn't, I hope you find the best methods to habituate and cope with it. It's truly frustrating that this awful condition still has no cure.

Thank you for your response, orenge01. I have to admit, it doesn't reassure me much. I saw that you were using an XM4 headset and had issues with it.

I think the first loud beep I heard, which I thought was a truck, was actually caused by my XM4 headset! The headset was off to the side, and luckily I wasn't wearing it at the time. I've also read that this headset has a lot of issues with humidity, and I live in a humid area and often use it in light rain. I'll definitely be selling it.

Now, I'm experiencing beeps with high-pitched noises and a sound that resembles a vacuum cleaner.

Have your tones changed as well?

I hope you're doing well!

 

[orenge01]

Unfortunately, I feel like my condition is getting worse. I was doing well, but now I'm experiencing new tones that seem to change from day to day. I hear beeping sounds when exposed to high-pitched noises. For example, when my mother started her washing machine, the high-pitched noise sounded like rapid beeping to me. I asked her if she heard it, but she said no. That really depressed me.

Regarding the tonal changes, previously, when I rubbed my feet on the floor or my hands on a blanket or through my hair, I would hear a high-pitched ultrasound-like sound. Now, it sounds more like a distant vacuum cleaner. Even cars make that vacuum cleaner-like noise. Have any of you experienced similar changes in your tones?

I'm not sure what to think. The medication I took has damaged my hearing, and it makes me really sad. I don't know if I'll get through this.

I'm also unsure whether these tonal changes are normal or if my stress and anxiety are playing a role in this.

I'll be posting a video of the washing machine for anyone who wants to listen. I'd like to know if you hear the beeps too, but no pressure, there's no obligation.



Thank you for your response, @ToriaM34.

I hope your condition improves. I am completely scared every day, and I experience new symptoms regularly. For example, I didn't have the beeping sounds two weeks ago, but now I do. I don't know why, especially since I stay at home and only play very, very low music. I really hope that's not what's causing the beeps.

This situation scares me a lot.

Thank you for your response, orenge01. I have to admit, it doesn't reassure me much. I saw that you were using an XM4 headset and had issues with it.

I think the first loud beep I heard, which I thought was a truck, was actually caused by my XM4 headset! The headset was off to the side, and luckily I wasn't wearing it at the time. I've also read that this headset has a lot of issues with humidity, and I live in a humid area and often use it in light rain. I'll definitely be selling it.

Now, I'm experiencing beeps with high-pitched noises and a sound that resembles a vacuum cleaner.

Have your tones changed as well?

I hope you're doing well!

I'm sorry, I'm just really frustrated right now. It feels like my hearing has diminished more after this recent flare-up. The tones I hear haven't changed much, but unfortunately, the tinnitus seems to have gotten a bit louder. I'm sorry you also had to experience that loud tone from the XM4s, but luckily, you weren't wearing them.

Back then, I was actually trying to fix or diagnose them, putting them up to my ear to hear what was wrong when they made that noise. In hindsight, it was completely stupid of me. I think the microphone inside might have gotten moisture in it because I often wore them after showers. Since then, I've noticed a similar faint beeping or whistling noise in my ears, like what the XM4s used to make, but now it's reactive to sounds. For instance, when I should be hearing something like a high-pitched electric guitar in the background, I just hear that annoying whistling instead.

I've gotten somewhat used to it and have definitely seen some improvements, though it's been a rollercoaster with lots of ups and downs. Thanks for asking—I really appreciate it!

 

[Kraazy]

I'm sorry, I'm just really frustrated right now. It feels like my hearing has diminished more after this recent flare-up. The tones I hear haven't changed much, but unfortunately, the tinnitus seems to have gotten a bit louder. I'm sorry you also had to experience that loud tone from the XM4s, but luckily, you weren't wearing them.

Back then, I was actually trying to fix or diagnose them, putting them up to my ear to hear what was wrong when they made that noise. In hindsight, it was completely stupid of me. I think the microphone inside might have gotten moisture in it because I often wore them after showers. Since then, I've noticed a similar faint beeping or whistling noise in my ears, like what the XM4s used to make, but now it's reactive to sounds. For instance, when I should be hearing something like a high-pitched electric guitar in the background, I just hear that annoying whistling instead.

I've gotten somewhat used to it and have definitely seen some improvements, though it's been a rollercoaster with lots of ups and downs. Thanks for asking—I really appreciate it!

Thank you for answering, @orenge01. Your response is really helpful!

We all make choices in life, and often we don't consider potential downsides at the moment. Your reaction was completely understandable—many people in your situation would have tried to fix it, especially considering how expensive these headphones are!

I'm the same way; whenever I notice something is wrong, I feel compelled to fix it. I'm good with computers, and I remember once hearing a high-pitched sound coming from mine when I moved my mouse. Out of curiosity, I disassembled the computer to get a closer listen. I did solve the issue, but in hindsight, I wonder if that could have damaged my hearing since I listened so closely with both ears.

When you say your tinnitus is reactive, what do you mean? Does it get louder in real-time, overwhelming other sounds, and then stay elevated for moments—or even days—after exposure? Or do you experience distortions where sounds around you (like water running, TV, air conditioning, fans, cars, etc.) seem to mimic the frequency of your tinnitus?

I'm glad you've managed to adapt. What advice would you give me? I'm almost two months in, and I want to recover as best as possible. How did you handle it? Did you listen to music? If so, what kind? Did you ever stay in complete silence, or did you try to continue with normal activities?

Currently, my routine looks like this:

• I wake up (I generally sleep 9-10 hours), and I take magnesium with breakfast.
• I go to the park for 1-2 hours to walk and get some sun.
• At home, I play video games or watch YouTube videos with sound through a small Sony Bluetooth speaker. I keep the volume low, around 40-50 dB, but it's challenging because I still hear beeps.
• In the evening, I have dinner and take more magnesium, then go to bed around 10 p.m.

Sometimes, I spend hours in complete silence, but I'm not sure if that's the right approach.

Thanks in advance for your advice!

 

[orenge01]

Thank you for answering, @orenge01. Your response is really helpful!

We all make choices in life, and often we don't consider potential downsides at the moment. Your reaction was completely understandable—many people in your situation would have tried to fix it, especially considering how expensive these headphones are!

I'm the same way; whenever I notice something is wrong, I feel compelled to fix it. I'm good with computers, and I remember once hearing a high-pitched sound coming from mine when I moved my mouse. Out of curiosity, I disassembled the computer to get a closer listen. I did solve the issue, but in hindsight, I wonder if that could have damaged my hearing since I listened so closely with both ears.

When you say your tinnitus is reactive, what do you mean? Does it get louder in real-time, overwhelming other sounds, and then stay elevated for moments—or even days—after exposure? Or do you experience distortions where sounds around you (like water running, TV, air conditioning, fans, cars, etc.) seem to mimic the frequency of your tinnitus?

I'm glad you've managed to adapt. What advice would you give me? I'm almost two months in, and I want to recover as best as possible. How did you handle it? Did you listen to music? If so, what kind? Did you ever stay in complete silence, or did you try to continue with normal activities?

Currently, my routine looks like this:

• I wake up (I generally sleep 9-10 hours), and I take magnesium with breakfast.
• I go to the park for 1-2 hours to walk and get some sun.
• At home, I play video games or watch YouTube videos with sound through a small Sony Bluetooth speaker. I keep the volume low, around 40-50 dB, but it's challenging because I still hear beeps.
• In the evening, I have dinner and take more magnesium, then go to bed around 10 p.m.

Sometimes, I spend hours in complete silence, but I'm not sure if that's the right approach.

Thanks in advance for your advice!

Yes, I mean I experience sound distortions. The whistling sound kind of flutters and flares up in volume when certain sounds aggravate it. It was really quite awful in the beginning, but I've gotten more used to it over time, as I mentioned earlier.

I used to listen to music and even make music, but always at very low volumes with headphones, around 4% on PC Windows audio. I still use headphones occasionally, but not the active noise canceling ones; I'm done with those. I used to wear headphones all the time, but now I mostly use my phone's speakers when I'm watching something. It works fine for me, and sometimes I even watch movies that way. I'm not saying I haven't gone to the movies since my tinnitus started—I have, but I brought foam earplugs, and it was fine. I had a good time! I also use earplugs on long car rides, as they tend to make my tinnitus spike.

So, that's pretty much how I manage it, with earplugs and low volume. I don't recommend wearing earplugs all the time, though. It's not good to have them in 24/7, but definitely use them if you're in a loud environment. I haven't taken any supplements myself, although I've heard it's common. I just haven't tried magnesium or anything like that.

Your routine sounds fine to me as well!

Hopefully, this was helpful.

 

[ToriaM34]

Unfortunately, I feel like my condition is getting worse. I was doing well, but now I'm experiencing new tones that seem to change from day to day. I hear beeping sounds when exposed to high-pitched noises. For example, when my mother started her washing machine, the high-pitched noise sounded like rapid beeping to me. I asked her if she heard it, but she said no. That really depressed me.

Regarding the tonal changes, previously, when I rubbed my feet on the floor or my hands on a blanket or through my hair, I would hear a high-pitched ultrasound-like sound. Now, it sounds more like a distant vacuum cleaner. Even cars make that vacuum cleaner-like noise. Have any of you experienced similar changes in your tones?

I'm not sure what to think. The medication I took has damaged my hearing, and it makes me really sad. I don't know if I'll get through this.

I'm also unsure whether these tonal changes are normal or if my stress and anxiety are playing a role in this.

I'll be posting a video of the washing machine for anyone who wants to listen. I'd like to know if you hear the beeps too, but no pressure, there's no obligation.



Thank you for your response, @ToriaM34.

I hope your condition improves. I am completely scared every day, and I experience new symptoms regularly. For example, I didn't have the beeping sounds two weeks ago, but now I do. I don't know why, especially since I stay at home and only play very, very low music. I really hope that's not what's causing the beeps.

This situation scares me a lot.

Thank you for your response, orenge01. I have to admit, it doesn't reassure me much. I saw that you were using an XM4 headset and had issues with it.

I think the first loud beep I heard, which I thought was a truck, was actually caused by my XM4 headset! The headset was off to the side, and luckily I wasn't wearing it at the time. I've also read that this headset has a lot of issues with humidity, and I live in a humid area and often use it in light rain. I'll definitely be selling it.

Now, I'm experiencing beeps with high-pitched noises and a sound that resembles a vacuum cleaner.

Have your tones changed as well?

I hope you're doing well!

I know it can be scary when the tones change, but I always try to view it as a positive sign. It shows that there is still elasticity in your brain. If the tones are changing, it might mean that your brain is trying to correct them. Hopefully, they will eventually fade away completely or transform into something less bothersome.

As for the washing machine question, I'm afraid I can't help with that. My ears react to noises like that too!

 

[Kraazy]

Yes, I mean I experience sound distortions. The whistling sound kind of flutters and flares up in volume when certain sounds aggravate it. It was really quite awful in the beginning, but I've gotten more used to it over time, as I mentioned earlier.

I used to listen to music and even make music, but always at very low volumes with headphones, around 4% on PC Windows audio. I still use headphones occasionally, but not the active noise canceling ones; I'm done with those. I used to wear headphones all the time, but now I mostly use my phone's speakers when I'm watching something. It works fine for me, and sometimes I even watch movies that way. I'm not saying I haven't gone to the movies since my tinnitus started—I have, but I brought foam earplugs, and it was fine. I had a good time! I also use earplugs on long car rides, as they tend to make my tinnitus spike.

So, that's pretty much how I manage it, with earplugs and low volume. I don't recommend wearing earplugs all the time, though. It's not good to have them in 24/7, but definitely use them if you're in a loud environment. I haven't taken any supplements myself, although I've heard it's common. I just haven't tried magnesium or anything like that.

Your routine sounds fine to me as well!

Hopefully, this was helpful.

Thank you so much for everything you've written; it will really help me. It's not easy, but I'll get there.

A few days ago, I heard what sounded like an ambulance siren while I was driving. I looked behind me, but there was no ambulance. Now, unfortunately, this siren noise reacts to any white noise, like the fan, running water, or the fridge. It's so difficult because, before these distortions started, I used to spend my days with headphones on—even with no sound playing. Now, I've put them away to force myself not to use them (it's already been a month and a half!). It's challenging because I can hear every sound in my house, and the "ambulance" distortions play over everything.

Hoping it goes away soon!

Thanks again for everything.

I know it can be scary when the tones change, but I always try to view it as a positive sign. It shows that there is still elasticity in your brain. If the tones are changing, it might mean that your brain is trying to correct them. Hopefully, they will eventually fade away completely or transform into something less bothersome.

As for the washing machine question, I'm afraid I can't help with that. My ears react to noises like that too!

I really hope to recover or adjust to this quickly. Those around me have a hard time understanding what I'm going through, and I don't go out much anymore—just to the park, where it's quiet. They asked me to go to a restaurant, but I told them, "Sorry, I have an ambulance in my ears; I can't come."

They probably think I'm crazy, and honestly, sometimes I feel like I am, too.

Thank you for your thoughts on the washing machine. It's tough not to get fixated on these noises, but once you're aware of them, I think you get used to them a little faster.

I've deleted all the apps and forums about distortion; I need to stop spending all day reading about it. It's hard, but I feel like all these new symptoms might be the result of constantly researching them.

 

[orenge01]

Thank you so much for everything you've written; it will really help me. It's not easy, but I'll get there.

A few days ago, I heard what sounded like an ambulance siren while I was driving. I looked behind me, but there was no ambulance. Now, unfortunately, this siren noise reacts to any white noise, like the fan, running water, or the fridge. It's so difficult because, before these distortions started, I used to spend my days with headphones on—even with no sound playing. Now, I've put them away to force myself not to use them (it's already been a month and a half!). It's challenging because I can hear every sound in my house, and the "ambulance" distortions play over everything.

Hoping it goes away soon!

Thanks again for everything.

I really hope to recover or adjust to this quickly. Those around me have a hard time understanding what I'm going through, and I don't go out much anymore—just to the park, where it's quiet. They asked me to go to a restaurant, but I told them, "Sorry, I have an ambulance in my ears; I can't come."

They probably think I'm crazy, and honestly, sometimes I feel like I am, too.

Thank you for your thoughts on the washing machine. It's tough not to get fixated on these noises, but once you're aware of them, I think you get used to them a little faster.

I've deleted all the apps and forums about distortion; I need to stop spending all day reading about it. It's hard, but I feel like all these new symptoms might be the result of constantly researching them.

That truly sounds like a pain.

For me, it hasn't changed into anything else. Occasionally, it mimics other sounds, but the loud whistling is always the main one.

And yes, you're probably right about stopping the research. It's harder to habituate when you're constantly reminding yourself of it. I should probably do the same.

Anyway, no worries, and I wish you all the best moving forward!

 

[Kraazy]

It's October 20th, and I've been experiencing these distortions for two months now.

They're still present, and I can't tell if I'm improving or not. Some days, I don't think about it as much. I notice the distortions with certain types of noise, but I try to focus on other things.

Currently, I still have a hissing noise when I speak or do anything. Some of the distortions I used to hear, like the vacuum cleaner or car exhaust, have lessened.

The ambulance siren sound is still there, but it's more distant. I think I may have several reactive tones at the same time—a high one and a low one—which sometimes combine to make me hear a sound like a siren.

The hardest part right now is digital audio. Even at low volumes, it's unpleasant to listen to. I used to love watching videos, but I can't anymore. It makes me sad, so instead, I put nature sounds on loop since they distort less.

I've been taking Magnesium for two months, but I think it's time to stop.

In some ways, things have improved, but in other ways, they haven't. Every day is different, which makes it hard to get used to.

I'm considering cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), but I'm embarrassed to call or see a psychologist.

Most of my days are spent playing poker, video games, or walking in the park. I'm often alone and try to avoid everyday noise, though I'm unsure if that's the right thing to do.

Fortunately, I see my friends every Monday evening.

But I do feel less happy, that's for sure.

 

[delta784]

It's October 20th, and I've been experiencing these distortions for two months now.

They're still present, and I can't tell if I'm improving or not. Some days, I don't think about it as much. I notice the distortions with certain types of noise, but I try to focus on other things.

Currently, I still have a hissing noise when I speak or do anything. Some of the distortions I used to hear, like the vacuum cleaner or car exhaust, have lessened.

The ambulance siren sound is still there, but it's more distant. I think I may have several reactive tones at the same time—a high one and a low one—which sometimes combine to make me hear a sound like a siren.

The hardest part right now is digital audio. Even at low volumes, it's unpleasant to listen to. I used to love watching videos, but I can't anymore. It makes me sad, so instead, I put nature sounds on loop since they distort less.

I've been taking Magnesium for two months, but I think it's time to stop.

In some ways, things have improved, but in other ways, they haven't. Every day is different, which makes it hard to get used to.

I'm considering cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), but I'm embarrassed to call or see a psychologist.

Most of my days are spent playing poker, video games, or walking in the park. I'm often alone and try to avoid everyday noise, though I'm unsure if that's the right thing to do.

Fortunately, I see my friends every Monday evening.

But I do feel less happy, that's for sure.

My tinnitus becomes severe and overwhelming at times, and I also experience distortions. Love from Turkey.