Tinnitus affects about one in five people, and this ringing in the ears is related to an underlying condition. It is quite annoying for those who suffer from this, even though it is not a serious disorder. It can be caused by hearing loss, an ear injury (or head injury), or a circulatory system condition. Sometimes only the physician can hear the sounds during an exam, and this is rare. This type of tinnitus is due to an issue with the auditory system, blood vessels, an inner ear condition, or even contractions of the muscles. Many people that work in loud environments every day suffer from tinnitus.
For some, the tinnitus occurs chronically for reasons that are unfounded, and research is currently being done to find a cure. Many people are raising awareness for this disorder to educate and inform new sufferers about this frustrating condition.
Symptoms
The tinnitus itself is very bothersome, as its sufferers can hear many types of sounds and various levels of volume. People that have tinnitus will hear ringing, roaring, buzzing, hissing, or clicking sounds that no one else hears. It may be very loud to the individual, or just a quite hum. It may also be a high-pitched sound or the opposite. The sounds are within either one or both ears. It may happen sporadically or happen constantly until the underlying condition is addressed.
How Acupuncture Can Help
In the world of Chinese medicine, tinnitus is viewed as a deficiency. Tonifying, or increasing the energy that is available, is performed with this condition, and the ears are focused upon. The meridians around the ears are cleared to remove any obstruction and to allow energy to flow freely. An acupuncturist will focus on the pressure points of the gallbladder, kidney, and other key meridians. For tinnitus, several sessions may be needed for improvement, depending on the underlying cause and severity.
If you suffer from tinnitus, for whatever reason, once the cause of the ear sensations or sounds is identified, the acupuncturist will be able to aid in your recovery.