If you live with tinnitus, you know that traveling can cause your symptoms to become especially bothersome. Fortunately, there are ways to manage your tinnitus whether you’re hitting the road or traveling by air. We review some strategies below.
Minimize Jet Lag
Jet lag can cause you to feel sleepy and fatigued, have trouble concentrating, experience mood changes, contribute to stomach issues and just result in you feeling unwell. It can also contribute to tinnitus spikes.
To minimize jet lag, talk to your doctor about taking a melatonin supplement. Melatonin is a hormone that occurs naturally in the body and tells you when it’s time to go to sleep, but it is also available in over-the-counter form at Athens Pharmacy.
Use Pressure-Equalizing Earplugs
Another trigger for tinnitus spikes is rapid elevation gain or loss, which can occur both on a airplane and in a car when driving through the mountains.
To combat this, invest in a set of pressure-equalizing earplugs. These have special filters that help equalize pressure in your ears more gradually.
Bring Hearing Protection
If you’re planning to participate in noisy activities – including walking around a bustling city – the noise exposure can also cause you to experience tinnitus.
Be prepared by packing hearing protection. We recommend carrying two types: foam or silicone earplugs that block all loud noises, and a pair a musician’s plugs, which allow safe noises through like your conversation partner without sacrificing sound quality, all while blocking dangerous sounds.
Prioritize Self-Care
Not all trips are a relaxing vacation, unfortunately. Even under the best circumstances, traveling can be stressful. Stress is a trigger for many people’s tinnitus.
No matter the reason you’re traveling, make sure to schedule time for self-care. This can look different for different people, whether it’s reading a book, visiting a coffee shop or taking a nap. Be sure to reset and relax to help manage your stress levels.
Hope for the Best, Prepare for the Worst
You should try to look forward to your trip; if you’re stressing too much about having tinnitus, you’re more likely to experience it. Try to maintain a positive attitude while traveling.
If you do suffer from symptoms, practice your coping strategies. This may involve playing white noise or another masking sound, meditating or doing some deep breathing exercises. For more information about tinnitus coping strategies or to schedule an appointment with a tinnitus expert, call the Georgia Hearing Center at ENT of Athens today.