COVID-19 exacerbates tinnitus, new research discovers

New research reveals that tinnitus is a common condition that causes the perception of ear and head noise, which is exacerbated by COVID-19 and our safety measures. ..

The study of 3,103 people with tinnitus was led by Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) with the support of the British Tinnitus Association and the American Tinnitus Association. Participants from 48 countries participated in the survey, the majority of which came from the United Kingdom and the United States.

Published in the journal Public health frontierAccording to a study, 40% of people with COVID-19 symptoms experience exacerbation of tinnitus at the same time.

Although the study focused on people with pre-existing tinnitus, a few participants also reported that their condition was caused by the initial development of COVID-19 symptoms, and tinnitus was in some cases ” Suggested that it may be a “long COVID” symptom.

Tinnitus affects an estimated 1 in 8 adults in the UK and is associated with reduced emotional well-being, depression, and anxiety.

A new study also found the majority of people who believed that tinnitus was exacerbated by social distance measurements introduced to help control the spread of the virus. These measures have revolutionized work and lifestyle routines.

UK respondents reported that this was a bigger problem compared to people in other countries, with 46% of UK respondents saying: Lifestyle changes It had a negative effect on tinnitus compared to 29% in North America.

Internal anxiety such as fear of being infected with COVID-19, financial concerns, loneliness, and sleep disorders are external factors such as increased video calls, noisy home environment, homeschooling, and increased coffee. This contributes to making tinnitus more annoying for 32% of people. Respondents also cited alcohol consumption. Women and people under the age of 50 have found tinnitus to be extremely annoying during a pandemic.

The study not only increased the severity of tinnitus symptoms, but also pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic made it more difficult for people to access health care support for the condition. This can further increase emotional distress, exacerbate the symptoms of tinnitus, and create a vicious circle. Prior to COVID-19, more than 8 out of 10 patients in the UK were already dissatisfied with the treatment options offered by healthcare professionals.

Dr. Eldre Beukes, a researcher at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in Cambridge, England and Lamar University in Texas, said: External factors such as increased anxiety and loneliness, and changes in daily life can have a significant impact on the condition.

“Some of the changes brought about by COVID-19 are: Adverse effects We reported that the lives of people with tinnitus and participants in this study were exacerbated by COVID-19 symptoms, or in some cases caused tinnitus and hearing loss. This is something that needs to be scrutinized in both clinical and support services. “

David Stockdale, Chief Executive Officer of the Tinnitus Association of the United Kingdom and co-author of the study, said: “It is important that we do not do this, as the second wave of COVID-19 and the resulting blockade of the state can increase stress and isolation.” Providing community health care to people with tinnitus As for, we see the same mistakes as before.

“Inadequate treatment of tinnitus in the early stages often leads to much worse cases, and severe tinnitus can have a significant impact on mental health. With this in mind, COVID-19 Wave 2 Established, medical systems are developed by everyone Tinnitus Or, if your condition worsens, you can get access to the professional medical support you need as soon as possible. ”