Hello,
I am 64 years old and have had bilateral tinnitus for 14 years. I developed hyperacusis 12 years ago. My baseline tinnitus was usually at a level I would describe as "off." However, in 2018, while wearing earbuds, I experienced an instantaneous burst of sound in my left ear, which caused my baseline tinnitus to change from "off" to a more noticeable level. At that time, the ENT told me that if the new sound level lasted more than a year, it would be considered permanent.
A few weeks ago, I had a regular hearing test and was also given a "sound sensitivity test," known as the Loudness Discomfort Level (LDL) test. This was the first time I had ever taken this test. During the test, I experienced an earache, which stopped shortly afterward, but I also developed vertigo that lasted about a week. Two days after the test, my tinnitus became much louder, though not louder than it had been at its worst in the past. I don't think I experienced any new sounds, but the increased volume was very distressing.
I informed the ENT physician's assistant about my experience. She consulted with the audiologist who performed the test, and they both assured me that the LDL test should not have worsened my condition. They explained that the test is commonly used to diagnose hyperacusis in patients like me. I also saw my general practitioner a week later, who agreed that the test should not have made anything worse. I have scheduled an appointment with an ENT specialist, but it won't be for a few months.
Recently, I have been reading posts about the LDL test, which have only increased my anxiety and fear. People on the forums say that the LDL test should be avoided, but I was unaware of this at the time. I have OCD, and this entire situation has significantly worsened my worry, anxiety, and heart arrhythmia. My tinnitus baseline is now more noticeable, and I fear this change might be permanent.
I feel horrible, crushed, and deeply upset with myself for what feels like a further injury. I have recently started cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), but I am uncertain if it will help. Any insight, advice, or support would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you,
James
I am 64 years old and have had bilateral tinnitus for 14 years. I developed hyperacusis 12 years ago. My baseline tinnitus was usually at a level I would describe as "off." However, in 2018, while wearing earbuds, I experienced an instantaneous burst of sound in my left ear, which caused my baseline tinnitus to change from "off" to a more noticeable level. At that time, the ENT told me that if the new sound level lasted more than a year, it would be considered permanent.
A few weeks ago, I had a regular hearing test and was also given a "sound sensitivity test," known as the Loudness Discomfort Level (LDL) test. This was the first time I had ever taken this test. During the test, I experienced an earache, which stopped shortly afterward, but I also developed vertigo that lasted about a week. Two days after the test, my tinnitus became much louder, though not louder than it had been at its worst in the past. I don't think I experienced any new sounds, but the increased volume was very distressing.
I informed the ENT physician's assistant about my experience. She consulted with the audiologist who performed the test, and they both assured me that the LDL test should not have worsened my condition. They explained that the test is commonly used to diagnose hyperacusis in patients like me. I also saw my general practitioner a week later, who agreed that the test should not have made anything worse. I have scheduled an appointment with an ENT specialist, but it won't be for a few months.
Recently, I have been reading posts about the LDL test, which have only increased my anxiety and fear. People on the forums say that the LDL test should be avoided, but I was unaware of this at the time. I have OCD, and this entire situation has significantly worsened my worry, anxiety, and heart arrhythmia. My tinnitus baseline is now more noticeable, and I fear this change might be permanent.
I feel horrible, crushed, and deeply upset with myself for what feels like a further injury. I have recently started cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), but I am uncertain if it will help. Any insight, advice, or support would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you,
James
Member
