6 great tips to prevent tinnitus

Tinnitus — that persistent ringing, buzzing, or humming in your ears — can feel frustrating, isolating, and even overwhelming. While some causes of tinnitus are unavoidable, there are practical ways to reduce your risk and protect your hearing.

At Hamilton Audiology, we’re not just here to help treat tinnitus — we’re passionate about prevention too. Here are six great tips to help you stay ahead of it:

1. Protect Your Ears from Loud Noise

One of the most common causes of tinnitus is exposure to loud sounds. Whether it’s live music, power tools, or noisy work environments, prolonged noise can damage the delicate hair cells in your inner ear.

Tip:
Use earplugs or noise-cancelling earmuffs in loud settings — and keep the volume down on headphones. If it feels too loud, it probably is.

2. Watch the Volume on Your Devices

We all love a good podcast or playlist — but listening through earbuds at high volume can gradually harm your hearing.

Tip:
Follow the 60/60 rule: Listen at no more than 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time. Over-ear headphones are also gentler on your ears than in-ear buds.

3. Manage Stress and Anxiety

Stress doesn’t cause tinnitus directly, but it can worsen symptoms or make them feel more prominent. Chronic stress affects how the brain processes sound, and can make you more sensitive to internal noises.

Tip:
Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or simply going for a walk. And remember — if you're feeling overwhelmed, support is available.

4. Be Mindful of Medications

Some medications (including certain antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and even aspirin) can be ototoxic — meaning they may affect your hearing or trigger tinnitus.

Tip:
Always check with your GP or audiologist before starting new medications, especially if you have a history of ear issues.

5. Prioritise Overall Wellness

Your ears are connected to your entire body — so general wellness plays a big role. Conditions like high blood pressure, poor circulation, or even jaw tension (TMJ) can influence tinnitus symptoms.

Tip:
Eat well, move regularly, and stay hydrated. Keeping your body in balance can help keep your ears in balance too.

6. Get Your Hearing Checked Early

Catching hearing changes early is one of the most effective ways to prevent or manage tinnitus. The sooner we understand what’s happening, the more options we have to support you.

Tip:
Book regular hearing checks, especially if you notice changes or work in noisy environments. Prevention always starts with awareness.

Final Thought: You Don’t Have to Manage Tinnitus Alone

Tinnitus can feel invisible — but you are not. At Hamilton Audiology, we specialise in compassionate tinnitus care, offering not just sound solutions but emotional support too. Counselling, wellness guidance, and personalised treatment plans are at the heart of what we do.

Ready to protect your hearing or explore support for tinnitus?
Get in touch today — we’re here to listen, and to help.

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