A frustrating condition that can significantly detract from a person’s quality of life, tinnitus is loosely defined as the perception of noise when no corresponding sound exists. Although it can have several different causes, tinnitus usually affects sufferers in the same way: by causing stress, depression and anxiety.
Research Established Connection
New research out of Brazil has shown a strong association between depression, anxiety and tinnitus. In conducting their study, researchers looked at 68 tinnitus sufferers along with 46 subjects who enjoyed clear, healthy hearing. After subjecting each participant to psychological and hearing tests, the researchers concluded that tinnitus sufferers were much more likely to experience depression and anxiety when compared to people who experience normal hearing.
Is it TMD?
Because it causes distracting noises that interfere with daily routines and sleep, tinnitus can drive people to the brink of sanity. Additionally, since it can originate from so many different sources, the condition can be difficult to treat.
Tinnitus can result from various causes, including, head trauma, ear wax buildup, exposure to very loud noises, reactions to medications, tumors, blood vessel disorders, Meniere’s disease and more. That said, in some instances, tinnitus can be caused by temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
TMD is a maddening condition that causes a host of sometimes-vague symptoms, including headaches, jaw popping and clicking, jaw pain and more. If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms in addition to tinnitus, you could have TMD.
Help for TMD
Although TMD symptoms can leave people feeling frustrated and confused, TMD treatment options are relatively simple and straightforward. Most often, this problem originates due to a misaligned bite. By correcting this problem, our TMJ dentists are able to relieve most or all symptoms related to TMD; so patients can live happy, normal lives. To learn more, contact our office today.
