Does Caffeine Cause Tinnitus? What Every Coffee Lover Should Know
Most Americans consume caffeine every day, whether in our morning coffee or favorite soda. But could this seemingly harmless habit might be damaging your hearing? Let’s find out.
- admin
- October 16, 2024
So, does caffeine cause tinnitus? While what causes the condition can be mysterious, there’s no evidence to suggest that enjoying your daily cup of joe will cause you to develop it. However — and this is important — caffeine is one of the top triggers for those who already have this condition.
The Science Behind Caffeine & Tinnitus
Tinnitus causes ringing or buzzing in the ears without any external stimulus. It can usually be confirmed by an expert hearing evaluation. Caffeine may affect tinnitus by stimulating your nervous system and triggering or worsening stress responses, such as raised blood pressure and constriction of the blood vessels. It can also cause dehydration, which is known to exacerbate symptoms.
Common Causes of Tinnitus
Tinnitus causes range from noise exposure to injuries to medications. We’ve listed some common causes below, plus caffeine sources to watch out for.
- Tinnitus Causes
- Noise exposure
- Earwax buildup
- Hearing loss
- Certain medications
- Head or neck injuries
- Ear infections
- Caffeine Sources
- Coffee
- Tea
- Soda
- Energy drinks
- Supplements
- Chocolate
Managing Your Consumption
Some may find that their caffeine intake has no effect on their tinnitus. For everyone else, it’s important to develop strategies to manage its triggering effects. The first port of call is always reducing the amount in your diet. You don’t have to cut it out completely, but finding substitutes for your favorite drinks is a good idea. Decaf coffee and herbal teas are an obvious choice. The key is to cut down gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Get Specialized Treatment at NYC Hearing Associates
Does caffeine cause tinnitus? No. Do you have to give up coffee just because you have it? Also no! With guidance and personalized tinnitus solutions from an experienced audiologist and some proactive lifestyle changes, you can still enjoy life to the fullest. Get in touch with our team to schedule a hearing checkup or consultation—and experience tailored care designed for your peace of mind.
