Q It has been 3 weeks since I started having tinnitus. Is there a high chance of improvement if I start treatment right now?
A Yes. In cases of tinnitus, especially when accompanied by sudden hearing loss, the earlier treatment begins (usually within 2 to 4 weeks) the higher the chance of recovery. The 3-week mark is a good time to start active management.
Detailed Answer
For tinnitus or sudden hearing loss, it is recommended to receive an ENT examination and hearing test as soon as possible after onset (ideally within 2 weeks). Even tinnitus caused by noise exposure recovers quickly if auditory stimulation is reduced and managed early on. Since the 3-week mark is still considered early, starting active treatment now is advantageous for preventing it from becoming chronic. If you experience a sudden feeling of fullness in only one ear or a sensation of hearing loss, an emergency ENT evaluation is the first priority.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
At Dongjedang, we also believe that the longer tinnitus persists, the more the underlying background of kidney deficiency and phlegm becomes entrenched, prolonging the treatment period. In the early stages, it is possible to rapidly calm the overexcitation of the auditory nerve by reducing upper body heat and stimulating acupoints around the ears (the area in front of, behind, and behind the ears) with acupuncture. Those who start treatment within a few weeks of the onset of tinnitus tend to see a faster reduction in the irritating sensation of the sound.
Related FAQs
-
Q
Is it possible for tinnitus to completely disappear, or do I just have to live with it?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
-
Q
I think my hearing has deteriorated a bit along with my tinnitus. Are these two related?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
I have high blood pressure and pulsatile tinnitus has started. Is my blood pressure related to the tinnitus?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
When I have tinnitus, is a quiet environment better, or is it better to keep some background sound on?
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
My tinnitus makes it really hard to fall asleep. Is there a good way to sleep well?
#Lifestyle Management