IN SHORT
Tinnitus is often linked to a dysfunction of the auditory system, particularly the inner ear, and is usually caused by trauma. The causes of tinnitus are well documented. The relationship between music and tinnitus may seem contradictory, but listening to soothing music at a moderate volume can effectively relieve your tinnitus.
Can Music Help Relieve My Tinnitus?
In a previous blog post, we began exploring the topic of tinnitus, highlighting its complexity and the discomfort it causes. Today, let’s delve a little deeper to find out whether music can have a beneficial effect on people with tinnitus.
At first glance, one might think there is an inverse relationship between tinnitus and listening to music. This assertion could very well hold true, since it is not advisable to expose our ears to excessively loud sounds. On the other hand, could soft music provide some relief from tinnitus? This is the question we will explore here.
How Can I Relieve Tinnitus?
First and foremost, it is important to note that tinnitus is often linked to a dysfunction of the auditory system, particularly the inner ear[1]. It is frequently a source of stress, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and social isolation. In some cases, it can be debilitating in daily life.
One might think that silence can relieve tinnitus. However, this is a misconception, because, in a sound-free environment, the background noises heard by the ear are amplified.[2]
Furthermore, contrary to popular belief, some suggest that listening to low- to moderate-intensity sounds may be effective in calming tinnitus and promoting sleep.
In this regard, listening to soft music may help mask tinnitus and promote sleep in those affected. However, it is not all black and white.
Tinnitus and Music: Dissonance or Harmony?
As mentioned, most cases of tinnitus are caused by damage to the inner ear.
Listening to music at high volumes can therefore lead to inner ear dysfunctions and cause irreversible damage. In Canada, 43% of the population aged 16 to 79 suffers from tinnitus.[3] Exposure to loud sounds, such as music and concerts or certain occupational activities, is believed to be the main cause.
From this perspective, there would be more dissonance than harmony between tinnitus and listening to music. Furthermore, people who are accustomed to listening to music at high volumes would derive less pleasure from listening to soothing music.[4]
In contrast, others claim that music can help relieve tinnitus. But what kind of music is recommended?
To relieve tinnitus, it is recommended to listen to soothing music, such as classical or jazz, or, more generally, any music you enjoy. In addition, you can listen directly from an external source or use earbuds or headphones, as is common today.
Sounds of nature, such as birdsong or the sound of waves, have also been found to be effective in alleviating tinnitus.
However, if you want to alleviate tinnitus, it is essential to maintain a reasonable noise level to prevent the recurrence of “interfering sounds”[5] and thus avoid triggering the discomfort associated with tinnitus.
Finally, when it comes to tinnitus and music, the key to harmony lies in finding the right balance of music to drown out the unpleasant sounds associated with tinnitus. By diverting the brain’s attention, you can mask the phantom sounds, allowing the music to serve as an effective form of relaxation therapy. It is recommended to listen to this soothing music at a moderate volume so as not to aggravate the problem.
It’s Time for an ENT Consultation!
If your tinnitus is affecting your quality of life and keeping you awake at night, consider seeing an ENT specialist. The specialists at Clinique ORL 1851 take the time to listen to you and will offer solutions to help relieve your tinnitus. Schedule an appointment today. Our professional team is here to help!
[1] https://dumas.ccsd.cnrs.fr/dumas-05065099v1/file/Couturier_Benjamin_these.pdf
[3] https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/82-003-x/2019003/article/00001-fra.htm
[4] https://theconversation.com/certaines-personnes-naiment-pas-la-musique-la-raison-se-trouve-dans-leur-cerveau-263500
[5] https://sonance-audition.fr/la-sante-auditive/les-troubles-de-loreille/les-acouphenes/
