@carol kane
Definitely check with a doctor regarding pain medications, but if you're just talking about minor pain you need something for occasionally, I still take advil. If you're taking a couple pills a month, I don't think it's a big deal. The problem comes when people take these medications with high regularity. If you're talking about a chronic pain you manage, then I would go ask your doctor and then do your own research regarding ototoxicity for whatever he/she recommends before taking it.
I would also, humbly, highly recommend acupuncture for pain management. I don't think acupuncture always helps tinnitus, but I have massive success with my severe, chronic back pain a few years ago. Many US insurance programs recognize the treatment for pain - so it is legitimate for that kind of condition and has been studied. Having no pain is way better than trying to figure out what med is better
Don't be afraid of your one beer. I was at first, too. I was afraid of salt, alcohol, starch etc. but in time I got a little braver and tried a beer here, or an espresso there. It made no difference for me. It might make a difference for you, but trying one beer will not permanently worsen your condition. If it makes it louder, then just don't do it again. You can live a more normal life than you think with tinnitus, don't let it get you too down, it just takes time to adjust!
Definitely check with a doctor regarding pain medications, but if you're just talking about minor pain you need something for occasionally, I still take advil. If you're taking a couple pills a month, I don't think it's a big deal. The problem comes when people take these medications with high regularity. If you're talking about a chronic pain you manage, then I would go ask your doctor and then do your own research regarding ototoxicity for whatever he/she recommends before taking it.
I would also, humbly, highly recommend acupuncture for pain management. I don't think acupuncture always helps tinnitus, but I have massive success with my severe, chronic back pain a few years ago. Many US insurance programs recognize the treatment for pain - so it is legitimate for that kind of condition and has been studied. Having no pain is way better than trying to figure out what med is better
Don't be afraid of your one beer. I was at first, too. I was afraid of salt, alcohol, starch etc. but in time I got a little braver and tried a beer here, or an espresso there. It made no difference for me. It might make a difference for you, but trying one beer will not permanently worsen your condition. If it makes it louder, then just don't do it again. You can live a more normal life than you think with tinnitus, don't let it get you too down, it just takes time to adjust!