There’s no shortage of sunny days here in Texas, but even with plentiful sunshine, sometimes we all forget sunscreen. Sunburn is irritating and stressful, but did you know that it can also affect your hearing health?
Amid all the sun-soaked joy, it’s essential not to forget about the less obvious impact of sun exposure on our bodies; if you experience tinnitus, the incessant ringing or buzzing sound in your ears, you may find that it worsens after spending extended time in the sun.
Understanding Tinnitus and Its Triggers
Tinnitus is often described as a ringing, hissing, or buzzing sound in one or both ears. It’s not a condition itself but a symptom of various underlying causes, including noise exposure, ear infections, and even stress.
Identifying the triggers of tinnitus can be complex, and while sunburn might not immediately come to mind, it does play a role in symptom exacerbation.
Can Sunburn Make Tinnitus Worse?
Tinnitus can come about due to several factors, including loud noise exposure, earwax impaction, and some ear-related conditions; while sunburn does not cause tinnitus directly, it can indirectly aggravate it.
The intense heat and damage from the sun lead to physical reactions that are particularly relevant for those with tinnitus. The skin’s response to sunburn includes inflammation—your body’s natural response to injury—and stress, which can intensify the perception of tinnitus.
Why the Body Reacts This Way
When your skin is burned by UV rays, a cascade of responses occurs within your body:
1. Inflammation:
Sunburn triggers an inflammatory response to begin the healing process. This inflammation doesn't just affect the skin but can also cause systemic effects, including potentially increasing the perception of tinnitus.
2. Stress Response:
Suffering from sunburn elevates stress levels as your body works to repair itself, and increased stress is a well-documented trigger for tinnitus flare-ups.
3. Dehydration:
Hot weather and sunburn can lead to dehydration, which compromises blood circulation. Proper blood flow is essential for maintaining healthy inner ear function, and fluctuations can amplify the phantom sounds associated with tinnitus.
The Role of Other Environmental Factors
Spending time in the sun often accompanies other environmental factors that can exacerbate tinnitus. For example, summer outings might involve exposure to loud noises, such as concerts or sporting events.
Coupled with the effects of sunburn, these can further intensify tinnitus symptoms. It’s essential to consider these factors in tandem and protect your hearing health during the sunny months.
Tuning In to Warning Signs
If you notice an increase in the frequency or volume of your tinnitus after basking in the sun, it’s worth paying attention.
Symptoms persisting beyond a few weeks, increasing in intensity, or occurring alongside other issues such as dizziness or discomfort warrant professional evaluation.
This is particularly true as persistent tinnitus may indicate underlying conditions that need addressing.
Listening to your body and acting early can significantly aid in managing tinnitus. Many find relief by working with hearing and tinnitus specialists who can offer tailored strategies and therapeutic options, ranging from sound therapy to stress management techniques.
Considering Hearing Healthcare This Summer
If your tinnitus symptoms worsen with sun exposure, it’s a sign to seek professional guidance.
Engaging with your local team of audiologists will not only help in managing your symptoms but also equip you with strategies to protect your hearing health in the future.
Don’t let tinnitus get in the way of enjoying your summer. Consult with our team of professionals who can assist you in regaining control over your symptoms.
Request a callback to get started on your hearing health journey with us, or for a more immediate conversation, give us a call at (972) 943-0466.
