Can Covid Worsen Hearing Loss?

Roughly one in five Americans experience tinnitus, the perception of noise in the ears.

READ MORE

Can Covid Worsen Hearing Loss?

Roughly one in five Americans experience tinnitus, the perception of noise in the ears frequently compared to a ringing or similar sound. Many factors contribute to tinnitus; now we can add COVID-19, thanks to a recent study from Angela Ruskin University in Cambridge, England.1

The study, which looked at 3,103 people with tinnitus from 48 countries, was conducted in cooperation with both the British Tinnitus Association and the American Tinnitus Association. The results, published in the medical journal Frontiers in Public Health, found that 40% of COVID-19patients experienced an increase in tinnitus symptoms.

While the majority studied in Cambridge had already been diagnosed with tinnitus, a small number appeared to have developed symptoms dueto the coronavirus, leading researchers to speculate that tinnitus may be an additional, though somewhat rare, symptom of COVID-19.

Social distancing was another contributing factor, according to a significant number of tinnitus sufferers whose work and lifestyle routines were disrupted (46% of UK patients and 29% from North America). Stress, loneliness and difficulty sleeping made tinnitus more bothersome for 32% of respondents.

Other factors mentioned by participants that exacerbated tinnitus symptoms include increased video calls, noisier home environments, homeschooling and increased coffee and alcohol consumption. Along with the challenges in accessing health care due to COVID-19 restrictions, it’s clear the pandemic impacts those with tinnitus across the globe.

“Some of the changes brought about by COVID-19 appear to have had a negative impact on the lives of people with tinnitus and participants in this study reported that COVID-19 symptoms are worsening or, in some cases, even initiating tinnitus and hearing loss,” explained Dr. Eldre Beukes, a Research Fellow at ARU and Lamar University in Texas and lead authorof the study.

 

With a long list of possible causes, it’s best to schedule an appointment with Silicon Valley Hearing to get to the root cause of your tinnitus.

 

1. Beukes EW, Baguley DM, Jacque min L, et al. Changes in tinnitus experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Frontiers in Public Health. 2020;8. DOI=10.3389/fpubh.2020.592878.


Audiologist Marni Novick Los Gatos, CA

Dr. Marni Novick

Founder & Audiologist

Marni Novick, AuD, is founder of Silicon Valley Hearing, Inc., which opened its doors in 2014, with the promise of delivering honest and affordable hearing healthcare, along with exceptional customer service to her valued patients.

About Dr. Novick

More Hearing Health Articles

Browse all articles
Hearing Health

Earwax Removal Methods: When to Seek Professional Help

At Silicon Valley Hearing, we understand that our active adult patients value their time and seek efficient, effective solutions. That's why we've invested in the latest technology and techniques for earwax removal. Our approach ensures that you can get back to your busy life quickly, with improved hearing and comfort.

Read More
Hearing Aids

Hearing Aids & Bluetooth Technology: Enhancing Connectivity in Daily Life

Bluetooth technology in hearing aids seamlessly integrates with your devices, enhancing communication, entertainment, and productivity.

Read More
Hearing Aids

The Role of Real Ear Measurements in Optimizing Hearing Aid Performance

Real Ear Measurement optimizes hearing aid performance, ensuring personalized fit and improved sound quality for individuals with hearing loss.

Read More
Hearing Health

Understanding Hyperacusis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hyperacusis, a condition of heightened sound sensitivity, affects daily life but can be managed with proper diagnosis and personalized treatment approaches.

Read More
Hearing Health

Custom Hearing Protection for Musicians: Preserving Your Hearing Without Sacrificing Sound Quality

Custom hearing protection for musicians preserves hearing health while maintaining sound quality, ensuring career longevity and optimal performance.

Read More
Hearing Aids

The Benefits of Rechargeable Hearing Aids

Rechargeable hearing aids revolutionize hearing care with convenience, cost savings, and advanced technology.

Read More