Tinnitus is a condition where a person hears ringing or other sounds in their ears. Many things can make tinnitus worse, including:

• Loud noises: Exposure to loud sounds from things like machinery, headphones, and concerts can worsen tinnitus.

• Medications: Over 200 drugs have been classified as having ototoxic side effects, meaning they cause temporary or permanent damage to hearing. Antibiotics, diuretics, antidepressants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS), and chemotherapy drugs are some examples. If you suspect medications are contributing to your tinnitus, see if your doctor can recommend alternatives.

• Stress and anxiety: Stress and anxiety can heighten tinnitus symptoms, which in turn leads to even more stress. Walking, yoga, and meditation are a few effective relaxation methods for combating the daily effects of tinnitus.

• Sleep deprivation: Sleep deprivation can exacerbate any health problem, tinnitus or otherwise. Aim for about 8 hours of sleep every night. If you need help nodding off, ask your doctor.

• Jaw problems: Problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jawbone to the skull, can cause tinnitus or make it worse.

• Earwax: Earwax buildup can cause tinnitus or make it worse. Your doctor can remove the earwax safely.

• Infections and allergies: Allergies, colds, ear infections, and sinus infections can cause congestion, which can worsen tinnitus.

• Blood pressure: High blood pressure can make tinnitus worse. If you know your blood pressure is high, check it often. Your doctor can help you control it.

• Caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol can boost your blood pressure, which can make you notice the ringing more. Cut back and see if that makes the ringing better.

• Migraines: Migraines can make tinnitus worse if they rob you of sleep and crank up your stress level. Ease the migraine and the ringing could let up, too.

• Being in a quiet place: Being in a quiet place can make tinnitus worse for some people.

• Being in a noisy place: Being in a noisy place can also make tinnitus worse for some people.

• Low blood pressure: Sometimes low blood pressure is also to blame for tinnitus. Your doctor can keep an eye on that.

• Viral or bacterial infections: A viral or bacterial infection can lead to an increase in tinnitus symptoms.

It is important to note that tinnitus is a symptom, not a disease, and therefore there is no cure. However, there are certain things you can do on your own to alleviate the symptoms. If you are experiencing tinnitus, it is recommended to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan.