Tinnitus

• An excessive amount of wax in the ear
• An ear infection
• A perforated eardrum
• Certain medication
• High blood pressure
• Allergies
• Anaemia
• An interruption of the cerebral blood flow (i.e. the blood flow to the head area)

• Ginkgo biloba, taken over the course of several weeks, has been found helpful in minimising tinnitus caused by impaired circulation. Ginkgo isn't suitable if you are taking blood thinning medication such as warfarin. Please consult your healthcare professional
• Magnesium phosphate and potassium phosphate are traditional treatments and may deliver a good result for some sufferers of tinnitus
• B group vitamins and herbs can calm the nervous system and may be of benefit for the stress that can accompany tinnitus

These diet and lifestyle suggestions may help minimise tinnitus:

• Doing regular exercise, such as cardio activities including running and yoga that increases blood circulation to the head may help relieve you of the symptoms of tinnitus
• Improving blood circulation to your ears is important and reducing the saturated fat and cholesterol in your diet can help.  Eating a healthy diet rich in fruit and vegetables and make sure you drink 6-8 glasses of filtered water a day
• If you're experiencing trouble sleeping, buy a white noise CD or try one of the many Tinnitus-related phone “apps” that feature sound libraries that will help mask the unwanted noise in your ears. Hypnosis has also been found to help some sufferers
• Avoiding loud noises is the most important remedy. If you are exposed to industrial noise pollution, or attending a loud concert, always wear ear plugs
• Avoiding alcohol, smoking, caffeine and reducing the salt in your diet can help improve cerebral blood flow

Tinnitus can sometimes be related to an underlying health condition and should always be discussed with your doctor or healthcare professional. It is also important to seek medical advice if you are suffering from symptoms of infection, pain, dizziness or pus in the ear.