About Tinnitus

What Causes Tinnitus?`

Tinnitus can stem from various factors, including exposure to loud noises, age-related hearing loss, ear infections, and even underlying health conditions. It often occurs when the auditory system sends false signals to the brain, leading to the perception of sound when no external sound source is present. 

The traditional explanation of Tinnitus is the hairs in the inner ear have been “bent or damaged”, causing erroneous electrical signals that are then interpreted as sound. However this doesn’t explain how Tinnitus comes & goes in some clients – the hairs would have to heal temporarily & then become damaged again.

One more feasible explanation for Tinnitus is that the Nervous System becomes highly activated & sensitised and we start listening to the sound of the nerves themselves. This is similar to listening to the background hiss on a recording, instead of the recording itself. Our Nervous Systems can become highly activated when our fight or flight (stress) response is triggered. It is feasible that the events often linked to Tinnitus – accidents, concussion, loud noises, infection, medication – could also be stimulating the same response.

Understanding Craniosacral Therapy:

Craniosacral Therapy is a gentle, hands-on technique that aims to balance and optimize the flow of cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. Developed by osteopath John Upledger in the 1970s, CST operates on the principle that subtle movements in tissues such as the cranial bones and sacrum can deeply relax the nervous system & influence the body’s overall health and well-being.

The Potential Benefits for Tinnitus Sufferers:

• Stress Reduction: One of the key contributors to tinnitus exacerbation is stress. CST’s gentle approach helps release tension in the body, promoting relaxation and stress reduction. This can lead to a decrease in the perception of tinnitus sounds and an improved emotional state.
• Enhanced Blood Flow and Nerve Function: CST is believed to improve blood circulation and enhance nerve function. By ensuring optimal circulation and reducing any restrictions in the craniosacral system, tinnitus sufferers may experience relief as improved blood flow and nerve function can positively impact auditory perceptions.
• Balancing the Autonomic Nervous System: CST aims to balance the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions. This balance can have a positive impact on tinnitus, as an overactive nervous system can sometimes contribute to the severity of tinnitus symptoms.
• Addressing Jaw and Neck Tension: Tinnitus can sometimes be linked to tension in the jaw and neck. CST sessions often focus on releasing such tension, potentially leading to a reduction in tinnitus-related discomfort.

Although there are no quick fixes for Tinnitus, Craniosacral Therapy is effective at long term settling of the nervous system. Its harmonizing effects on the body’s natural rhythms, coupled with the potential to alleviate stress, enhance circulation, and foster nervous system balance, make it an excellent option worth exploring for Tinnitus sufferers.

Foods to avoid with Tinnitus

Some foods can exacerbate Tinntus. This has been corroborated by some of my patients. It’s important to note that the impact of these foods can vary from person to person, and dietary changes should be made gently. Common foods and substances that some people with tinnitus find helpful to limit or avoid include:

1. Salt: High sodium intake may lead to increased fluid retention and blood pressure, potentially exacerbating tinnitus symptoms.

2. Caffeine: Some individuals report that caffeine can trigger or worsen tinnitus. This includes coffee, tea, chocolate, and some medications.

3. Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can dilate blood vessels, increasing blood flow and potentially intensifying tinnitus symptoms.

4. High-Sugar Foods: Some people believe that a diet high in sugar may contribute to inflammation, affecting blood flow and potentially worsening tinnitus symptoms.

5. Aspartame: Some people believe that artificial sweeteners like aspartame may worsen tinnitus symptoms.

6. Monosodium Glutamate (MSG): Found in some processed and restaurant foods, MSG is another substance that some individuals associate with an increase in tinnitus symptoms.

7. Certain Trigger Foods: While not universally applicable, some people with tinnitus find that certain trigger foods, such as those high in sugar, unhealthy fats, artificial additives or preservatives may affect their symptoms.