The chilly winter months often bring unwelcome guests – colds and upper respiratory infections. These infections can not only leave you feeling miserable but can also trigger an unpleasant condition known as tinnitus.

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a form of of ringing, buzzing, or other noises in the ears. While it’s more common in older adults, tinnitus can affect people of any age. You can be more affected by tinnitus if you have some pre-existing conditions. This includes things like hearing loss and ear injuries. This condition can be frustrating. In some cases, it can be painful. Tinnitus can cause people to become depressed if left untreated.

How Can Upper Respiratory Infection Cause Tinnitus?

While the exact causes of tinnitus vary, upper respiratory infections are a common culprit. It can cause issues with your throat, nose, and ears. When you have an upper respiratory infection, it causes pressure in these areas which can cause ringing in your ears.

How Can You Prevent Tinnitus?

Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing tinnitus:

  • Ear Cleaning: Regular ear cleaning helps prevent earwax buildup, which can contribute to tinnitus. Clean your ears gently with a soft cloth after showering.
  • Warm Clothing: In cold weather, protect your ears with earmuffs or a hat. This helps prevent cold-related inflammation and pressure changes that can trigger tinnitus.
  • Good Hygiene: Frequent handwashing and sanitizing surfaces can help reduce the spread of viruses that cause upper respiratory infections, thereby lowering your risk of tinnitus.
  • Regular Checkups: Schedule regular visits with your doctor to monitor your overall health to address any potential ear or hearing concerns early on.

If you have tinnitus due to upper respiratory infection, give us a call at Beltone Chicago as soon as possible. You should never have to deal with the ringing in your ears or the risk of hearing loss. If you have tinnitus and hearing loss, we offer hearing aids that can help. They stop the ringing in your ears and help you hear better.