| Tinnitus is a subjective disorder characterized as chronic ringing, roaring, buzzing, humming, chirping, or hissing in the ears in the absence of environmental noise (ATA 2002). Symptoms of tinnitus are frequently found in elderly persons and are often associated with hearing loss related to the aging process (presbycusis). Although the cause is usually unknown, tinnitus can be a symptom of almost any ear disorder, including infection (otitis media), a blocked ear canal (ear wax) or eustachian tube, otosclerosis (overgrowth of bone in the middle ear), labyrinthitis, and Meniere's disease. Even blast injury from explosions has been known to cause symptoms of tinnitus. Additionally, adverse side effects from some drugs (e.g., aspirin and antibiotics) cause tinnitus symptoms. If tinnitus is caused by age-related hearing loss or damage to your ears from exposure to excessive noise, there is no treatment to reduce the noise (MFMER 2001; NIH 2001). Instead, treatment consists largely of managing the condition. Not every suggested treatment works for everyone, so you may need to try several to find one that will help. It is important to avoid anything that could make your tinnitus worsen, including smoking, alcohol, and loud noises. If you are a construction worker, an airport worker, a hunter, or are often exposed to loud noise at home or at work, you should wear ear plugs or special ear protection (muffs) to protect your hearing (NIH 2001). People in large cities are exposed to potentially damaging loud noises on a daily basis. Studies have shown that noise exposure causes magnesium to be excreted from the body (Mocci et al. 2001). It is possible that supplementing with magnesium could reduce noise-induced ear damage and thus reduce the likelihood of new-onset tinnitus. Few studies document that magnesium relieves tinnitus symptoms, but many patients have experienced relief by using magnesium (Attias et al. 1994). | Second Annual Evidence-based CAM for Cancer Advocates
January 8-10, 2009
Palm Beach Airport Hilton West Palm Beach, FL Surveys and studies show that 60-80% of people with cancer are interested in, or using, complementary and alternative (CAM) approaches. And while the oncology community response to patient interest is growing, it continues to lag far behind the need. This two and one-half-day education conference, held in West Palm Beach, Florida, will focus on a multi-disciplinary approach, and will address issues such as nutrition, dietary supplements, mind-body-spirit relaxation techniques, exercise, hands-on therapies and much more. The many conference speakers include: Spaces are limited, so for more information including hotel reservations (first week in November) and conference registration NOW OPEN |
