1. Tinnitus
What is Tinnitus?
People usually regard Tinnitus as “ringing in the ears.” But that’s a bit of a misnomer. It’s any noise you hear in your ear that isn’t coming from an external source. The “ringing” could also be a hissing, a roaring, or a clicking sound. “Or, it can be a high-pitched tone, buzzing, a whooshing, a pulsing,” says Kit Frank, an audiologist at New York University’s Langone Health in New York City. “It could be crickets, ocean noises, or white noise.”【1】
This is a common experience, affecting about 10 percent of the population. There are around 200 distinct health conditions that can cause tinnitus, according to the American Tinnitus Association. Therefore, some common ones include age-related hearing loss, severe nasal or sinus congestion, excessive ear wax, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, and a prior history of head and neck trauma. 【2】
Tinnitus is an abnormal sound that occurs in the ear or intracranial cavity of the patient in the absence of an external sound source, such as a hum or hiss. This sound sensation can be one or more and lasts for a certain amount of time. Tinnitus itself is not a disease, it is a symptom of some diseases. People can have physiological tinnitus, and when it exceeds the physiological limit, it becomes symptomatic tinnitus. Patients with hearing loss are often accompanied by tinnitus, which is often a symptom of a disturbance or disorder of the hearing system.
How is tinnitus usually treated?
For many patients, tinnitus is a chronic symptom or a chronic disease. The aim of treatment is to reduce the effects of tinnitus and correct the associated dysfunction. Patients may have symptoms such as no corresponding electrical stimulation or external sound sources. Abnormal sounds will appear in the patient’s ears. It will make them feel very uncomfortable and will make their emotions very irritable. Let’s take a look at how is tinnitus usually treated.
For people with previous diseases
- For patients with depression and insomnia, symptoms can be alleviated through psychotherapy and correction of sleep disorders.
- For that of vascular origin, according to the primary disease, various methods can be used to treat it. For example, when a benign artery is mutated, the doctor ligates the corresponding diseased blood vessel.
- For patients with hearing loss, correcting the hearing loss, wearing a hearing aid, or implanting a cochlear implant may be helpful.
- For that caused by drug ototoxicity, people should not have the drug anymore to prevent disease progression.
For other people
- Antianxiety medications or therapies can help some individuals manage their response to tinnitus
- Avoiding stimulants, such as alcohol and caffeine
- Relaxation therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Alternative medicine, including acupuncture and hypnosis 【3】
Determining the preferred treatment of it depends on the underlying cause. In light of this, the first step in effectively managing this condition is to determine the cause through imaging and medical testing. For example, if blood vessels put pressure on nerves, surgery can be an efficient way to relieve the pressure.
Unfortunately, the cause of most cases of tinnitus is unclear. In these cases, doctors aim to reduce the symptoms that affect the quality of life of patients. Most treatments for tinnitus and subjective tinnitus vary in causes and treatments.
2. CBD
What exactly is CBD?
CBD oil is an extract of the hemp plant called cannabidiol, blended with bases (carrier) oils such as coconut oil or hemp seed oil. CBD oil comes from cannabis indica and cannabis sativa plants. It is another non-psychoactive compound in cannabis. CBD is responsible for most medical benefits.
CBD oil has a variety of possible health benefits. It is used as an appetite stimulant, a sleep aid, to treat skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis, relieve pain, and much more.
Although derived from hemp, CBD oil is not the same as hemp. But that doesn’t mean CBD oil is one hundred percent safe. Some possible side effects, such as dry mouth, can be quite mild. Others, like anxiety, maybe more important. Some of the potential side effects may even make CBD oil not recommended for some people.
How does CBD work?
Marijuana’s impact on the brain is complex and varies from person to person. How quickly cannabis works depends on how it is consumed. When smoked, the effects are felt almost immediately because THC goes quickly into your bloodstream via your lungs. This causes brain cells to release dopamine, creating the sensation of euphoria. Eating cannabis causes its effects to be felt more slowly, sometimes taking as long as an hour or more. 【4】
Cannabinoid receptors
THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids interact with the human brain at sites called cannabinoid receptors. Cannabinoid receptors are found on human cells and are involved in various processes. It can help maintain consistency in the body despite changes in the body’s environment. The main cannabinoid receptors are called CB1 and CB2.
CB1 receptor
CB1 receptors appear to affect cognition, memory, movements, and pain perception. Most CB1 receptors are found in the brain, but some can be found in nerves in the liver, thyroid, bone, and so on.
CB2 receptor
Unlike CB1 receptors, CB2 receptors are mainly in immune cells, the spleen, and the gastrointestinal system.
CB2 receptors are also present in the brain but to a lesser extent. CB2 receptors also play a role in human reproduction. Cannabinoids act on CB2 receptors to reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract found in diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Cannabinoids and Endocannabinoids
Your body produces its cannabinoids, which are called endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids have a wide range of activities related to maintaining a balance, from nursing to growth to respond to injury. The cannabinoids in marijuana interfere with the body’s natural regulation of various chemicals, including dopamine. The researchers suspect that cannabinoids allow more of these chemicals to be released than usual.
The Difference Between Marijuana and CBD
There are more than 80 chemical compounds in cannabis known as cannabinoids. These chemicals are responsible for the plant’s psychoactive effects. Of these, the two most researched compounds are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), which were both discovered in the early 1960s. THC is considered the main psychoactive chemical in marijuana, but CBD has recently raised interest due to its potential to treat illnesses like seizures. 【5】
THC and medical marijuana
As the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, THC is also the most commonly studied chemical in the plant. THC affects the human body in a number of ways, affecting body temperature, pulse rate, time perception, anxiety, pain perception, short-term memory, and spatial awareness.
THC is also a chemical that produces euphoria. It is the thing that some people chase.
CBD and medical marijuana
CBD works very differently from THC. Compared to THC, CBD takes about 100 times more to have any effect on cannabinoid receptors. Receptors are sites of interaction with cannabinoids in the body. Unlike THC, CBD does not cause intoxication or euphoria. In some ways, CBD seems to have the opposite effect of THC. For example, while THC tends to increase anxiety, CBD seems to reduce anxiety.
Why is CBD so popular now?
CBD oil has a variety of possible health benefits. It is used as an appetite stimulant, a sleep aid, to treat skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis, relieve pain, and much more. It can help treat anxiety, depression, arthritis, and even multiple sclerosis, and can even help fight cancer and reduce the risk of tumor development.
People who support the use of CBD claim that CBD oil benefits people with a variety of health problems. CBD oil is said to be good for:
Acne
ADHD
Anxiety
Cancer
Chronic pain
Depression
Drug use and withdrawal
Epilepsy
Glaucoma
High blood pressure
Insomnia
Muscle spasms
Parkinson’s disease
Poor appetite
Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis 【6】
Legalization
In 1996, California voters passed the nation’s first law legalizing medical marijuana. Since then, all but eight states have passed laws legalizing some form of medical marijuana. Laws vary widely from state to state. Some states only allow CBD to be used as medical treatment. Others prohibit the use of marijuana, but allow it to be consumed in other ways. Some states have legalized the sale of medical and recreational marijuana.
At the time this article was written, 23 states have legalized medical marijuana with varying restrictions. However, it is classified as a Schedule I substance by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and thus is illegal at the Federal level. In most states with legal medicinal marijuana, a prescription, authorization, or medical recommendation is required, and a card or license is issued. This allows a person to buy medical marijuana. 【7】
3. CBD & Tinnitus
Can CBD help treat tinnitus?
Principle
Medical studies have shown that tinnitus is a sensory form of epilepsy. Researchers mention that cannabinoid medications, such as products containing CBD, can provide tinnitus relief. CBD or cannabidiol claims anti-epileptic properties. This therapeutic potential may help solve one of the main causes of tinnitus, namely hyperactivity in the auditory region of the brain.
The reason CBD is helpful for tinnitus is that it is a very effective treatment for epilepsy. CBD affects cells in the brain and many tissues through CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. Of course, some people find that CBD can also help with the link to tinnitus, as the CB1 receptor is present in the auditory central nervous system and other parts.
Researches
For example, a 2015 study using CBD to treat laboratory rats showed that it didn’t help. In some cases, it even seemed to worsen tinnitus (at least in rats). A 2020 literature review stated that human studies need to be conducted before any conclusions can be drawn.
However, there’s some evidence that CBD might help with stress, which can be a problem for people with chronic tinnitus. For example, the results of a study published in the 2015 issue of Neurotherapeutics suggest CBD is effective in reducing anxiety behaviors related to disorders such as PTSD, SAD, and OCD. Other studies have produced mixed results, according to VeryWell.com. 【8】
Is CBD safe to use for tinnitus?
According to two animal studies that analyzed the efficacy of CBD oil in the treatment of rats with tinnitus caused by aspirin toxicity, isolated CBD doesn’t improve tinnitus symptoms. Furthermore, one study on rats found that the cannabinoid may even deteriorate tinnitus.
Nevertheless, since there’s a lack of human research when it comes to using CBD oil for tinnitus, it’s too early to draw definitive conclusions about its safety and efficacy in this subject. 【9】
Risks
There are also some risks in the use of CBD. Although CBD has good tolerance, it can cause side effects such as dry mouth, diarrhea, decreased appetite, drowsiness, and fatigue. CBD can also interact with other medications you are taking, such as blood thinners.
Another cause of concern is the unreliability of the purity and dosage of CBD in the product. A recent study of 84 CBD products purchased online shows that more than a quarter of products contained less CBD than labels. In addition, about 18 products include THC.
So, if you plan to use a product that contains CBD, please consult your doctor first.
What are the side effects of taking CBD for tinnitus?
However, when taking a lot of CBD at a time, you may experience some minor adverse reactions, including:
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Appetite fluctuation
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
There’s also a risk of CBD-drug interactions, as CBD is the inhibitor of the Cytochrome p450 system, a group of enzymes responsible for metabolizing drugs. Taking CBD with certain medications may result in either a subtherapeutic effect or substance toxicity. If you take any medications that could potentially interact with CBD, we suggest that you consult with a doctor before buying any CBD product for tinnitus. 【10】
How many CBD should I take for tinnitus?
There are no guidelines for use, nor is there a “correct” dose of CBD oil. That said, the average dose range is from 5 mg to 25 mg. 【11】
CBD has a well-established safety profile. Several international health agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) have stated CBD is a safe and well-tolerated compound in humans. Some studies have tested doses as high as 1,500 mg daily for several days and have found no dangerous side effects.【12】
CBD oils are available in a variety of dosage forms, for example, from CBD powders to vape instant concentrates. It is also available in the form of plant tincture oil. People can take CBD in a number of ways. It is either taken orally, absorbed, or smoked. When people take it by smoking, the inner wall of the lungs would absorb CBD. Another route is the sublingual route. Through the sublingual pathway, the capillaries would absorb CBD and CBD can show its effects. The common ways include:
Tincture (CBD oil mixed with base oil)
Capsule
Fudge
Spray
Which one you choose depends largely on your preferences and what you want to get in terms of results. For example, putting oil under the tongue can produce an effect faster than swallowing a capsule that needs to be digested. Depending on the form, each product works slightly differently, so it is important to follow the instructions on the products.
However, it is important to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it as needed. It’s also important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements, especially if you have a health condition.
Consult Your Audiologist
How much CBD should I take?
The first question you should ask your audiologist is about the correct dosage. Studies have shown that CBD may have therapeutic benefits, but scientists aren’t yet sure how much it takes to get the desired effect.
It’s clear that different people may need different amounts of CBD to benefit from it. Talking to an audiologist who is familiar with your health condition and family health history will best provide some guidance.
What type of CBD should I try?
Another discussion with your audiologist is about the type of CBD to try. We have already mentioned that CBD has many forms: tinctures, oils, creams, and capsules, but you can also find topical medications, gummies, separating powders, and several other ways to incorporate CBD into your daily life. But do you know which one is best for you? How do you choose?
Similarly, your audiologist’s answer may depend on your individual needs. If you are already taking a certain amount or type of prescription medication, your audiologist may recommend a low-dose approach. Or maybe you’re not the biggest fan of swallowing pills, so CBD gummies might be a better option.
Your doctor can guide you to use various forms of CBD based on your goals. Are you struggling with tiredness? Do you want to relieve joints and muscles directly after daily strenuous activities? Understanding and verbally expressing your goals will help your doctor provide the best advice for CBD use.
Can CBD replace my current medications?
There are a lot of opinions on the internet, and many even claim that the use of CBD has eliminated their need for any other prescription drugs. But CBD is not a size that works for all supplements and may or may not work for you.
Are you interested in CBD as a natural supplement to the medications you are currently taking? Does your doctor see the potential benefits of switching to or incorporating CBD as a complementary pathway to your current needs? Your doctor can help you clarify any confusion you may encounter, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and discuss your options. Don’t forget to ask about any possible drug interactions with your current medication.
What conditions can CBD help me solve?
If you want to take CBD as a natural remedy, consult your doctor about your specific situation. CBD may not be an option for certain health issues. In this way, it is best to consult your medical professional before you decide to make any changes on your own.
Other conditions may include anti-aging effects, skin condition treatment, or gut health. Some say that CBD creams and serums can relieve acne, smooth wrinkles, and even regenerate damaged skin. You may need to visit a doctor to learn about these issues with CBD and skincare products.
Finally, CBD can also deal with your gut health questions. Ask your regular doctor if persistent bloating, indigestion or other problems will eventually stop with the use of more natural methods.
How do I choose the best CBD products for tinnitus in 2022?
Check ingredients lists
The label should list CBD content, ingredients, and THC levels. The THC levels must be less than 0.3% to comply with federal law. Look for products with high CBD content and low THC. Make sure you know how much CBD is in each bottle or dose, and avoid using any product on the label that doesn’t contain supplemental facts and a complete ingredient list.
Price
Not all CBD products are equal. Some products are more expensive due to the quality of the ingredients or the manufacturing process. While some CBD products are very expensive, you should be aware that high-quality American-made CBD oil is more expensive than cheap counterfeits. If CBD prices seem to be much lower than other brands, there’s a reason for that. You can get what you pay for many CBD products, so please avoid products that are unusually in low price, especially those that don’t tell you how much you can get from CBD.
Also, avoid any of the “free trial” options you see. Getting CBD at very low prices or just at shipping costs is usually predatory to capture your credit card details and re-bill you every month. Quality CBD products don’t rely on the free trial, nor do they sell real CBD for a few dollars per bottle.
Reviews
Always read the reviews provided by other customers to learn more about the CBD products you are following. This will help you understand the experience of other users and give you an idea of what you are going to use, what kind of impact you can expect from the tincture, etc.
Reading reviews can help you properly understand CBD tinctures and their brands. It may open your eyes and discover aspects you don’t know about, such as possible side effects, and so on. It can also help you choose the ideal dosage, flavor, etc.
Third-Party Testing
Ensure that the CBD product you select is lab-tested and contains no pesticides, solvents, or other chemicals. High-quality brands will provide 3rd party laboratory tests documenting not only the total amount of CBD, but also the tests for contaminants, bacteria, and other unwanted ingredients or residues. 【13】
4. Tips: Effective Tinnitus Relief Options
Ear massage
Gently massage and rub the ears and earlobes when washing the face, or press the palms of your hands to the ears, put your thumbs behind the head, and tap the back of the head with four fingers. This can stimulate the peripheral nerves to promote blood circulation, lymphoid tissue circulation, and metabolism, and alleviate tinnitus.
Tympanic membrane massage
In your spare time, block the ear with your two palms at the same time, squeeze quickly leave, and do it more than a few times. This can promote blood circulation in the ear, and also can alleviate tinnitus and brain fatigue.
Breath-holding method
Sit still, clench your teeth, pinch your nostrils with two fingers and open your eyes so that the air enters the ear canal until you feel a roar. This can increase the pressure on the various blood vessels in the ear so that your body can concentrate more blood here. It is good for relieving tinnitus.
Heat compress method
Put a warm towel on your ears, or rub your hands until the time it is warm enough, put your palms on the ears, and dilate the blood vessels through your temperature, so as to increase your blood supply.
Open and close mouth method
Every morning when you get up, open your mouth to the maximum, exhale outward, and then take a breath and close it. In this way, the opening and closing, many times in a row, can not only make the face of multiple muscles rhythmically move, but also promote the metabolism of your body, accelerate blood circulation, move your throat, keep your eustachian tube in a good state, so that the pressure inside and outside the ear will be normal. It can finally prevent tinnitus.
In addition, tinnitus patients can eat more foods that are beneficial to tinnitus, such as walnuts and kiwifruit. Do not eat spicy and stimulating foods, and ensure sleep and regular life.
5. Conclusion
If you have tinnitus, it’s not a bad idea to try CBD to help relieve symptoms. However, keep in mind that there is not enough evidence that CBD is effective, and the effectiveness of CBD treatment may depend on the underlying cause of tinnitus. If you develop inflammation, CBD may help. If you are in old age, CBD may not help with health problems.
When you want to try using CBD to treat tinnitus, you need to buy from a trusted brand and find out where their cannabis comes from, understand the ingredients in their products, and ensure that they are safe. This is especially important that you need to avoid THC, as laboratory testing is the only way to verify that THC is not present.
You may also consider using CBD to treat chronic pain, sleep problems, or anxiety problems. If so, you’re in luck! Researchers suggest that CBD is effective in treating these diseases, although you should still do your research and buy from a reputable brand.
If you are interested in CBD as a natural remedy, consult your doctor about your specific situation. CBD may not be an option for certain health issues, and it’s best to consult your medical professional before you decide to make any changes on your own.
