5 Things That Have Helped Me with Tinnitus and Hyperacusis

Photographer: Wendy Spickerman

Today, we're going to talk about some of the things that have helped me with my Tinnitus, Hyperacusis and Directional Hearing issues. I'm literally 2 months away from being 4 years diagnosed. It hasn't been an easy road. It's been filled with good days and very bad days. Repeated surgeries and starting over from square one.

#1 Be an Advocate for Yourself

    a. Don't let anyone tell you, you have to do something, if you know from experience, it's harmful to you. And when I say harmful, I don't just mean documented OSHA harmful, I mean causes you physical pain or distress also.


#2 Listen To Your Body

   a. Your body will tell you when you need a break, when you can advance treatments. What you need in your life and what you need to remove from your life. Stress is a big trigger for anyone whether you only get tinnitus now and then or have it 24/7 and the same goes for those suffering from hyperacusis and other hearing issues.

   b. If you’re exhausted physically, mentally, spiritually your body is trying to tell you, you need a change. Sleep when you feel you need it and eat when you’re hungry. I've noticed that right before I have a spike that affects my eating causing nausea and/or vomiting. I feel hungrier.



#3 Find the Right Doctor

   a. If you have a doctor who tells you to just "live with it" or one who doesn't answer your questions or shows concerns for you needs. Find another doctor, its okay! I fired my ENT Specialist and found another one. He was uncertain at first but when I explain all that had happened and what this doctor’s attitude was toward my concerns, he gladly took me on as a patient and was a huge step in the right direction for my care. I still see him. I have a team of "five" doctors who have helped me. They all have done their part and I credit a lot of my adapting, recovering, and therapy to them.



#4 Think Positive

   a. I can't stress enough how important a positive mindset is, it does wonders for your health. And you'll need it to get through the most horrific times.

   b. People with a positive mindset tend to adapt quicker to their condition, have faster recovery time from setbacks, and see themselves as a survivor, not a victim of the condition.



#5 Get Yourself A Support Team

   a. Those that have a good support team are less depressed and less stressed. Having these conditions is hard enough but when you have to deal with people who not only don't understand, but give you a hard time because of your condition it causes one to stress, lose confidence, and feel trapped, overwhelmed and unable to cope with even the smallest things like getting out of bed. I have a great partner in my life. He understands I have a condition and adapts with me. Remember you're not the only one going through this... everyone around you is too and it can be just as hard on them.



I hope you find this information helpful. If you'd like to share your story send a photo, name, location, along with your story to wendyspickerman@gmail.com and I'll be glad to add it here.. Note: Your story should be kept under 600 word count.