What is the connection between depression and tinnitus?

The occurrence of tinnitus in patients with depression may be caused by excessive mental stress, drug side effects, and other factors. However, it can also be related to external factors.

Physiological Causes

1. Excessive Mental Stress: Prolonged exposure to tension and anxiety can elevate the excitability of the sympathetic nervous system, leading to symptoms such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and even tinnitus. It is recommended to maintain a positive mindset and avoid excessive tension and anxiety.

2. Drug Side Effects: Adverse reactions to antidepressant medications can alter hormone levels in the body, triggering the aforementioned phenomena. Generally, no special treatment is required, and symptoms will gradually resolve after discontinuing the medication.

Pathological Causes

In addition, tinnitus can also be caused by external factors, such as cerumen impaction. Cerumen is a yellowish, viscous fluid secreted by the ceruminous glands located in the skin of the cartilage portion of the external auditory canal. When excessive cerumen accumulates within the canal, it can form hard clumps that block the canal, impairing normal hearing and causing symptoms like ear fullness and pain. In such cases, cerumen can be removed using tweezers, and sodium bicarbonate ear drops can be used as per medical advice for improvement.

In daily life, it is important to maintain a balanced diet, with a focus on light, fresh fruits and vegetables, and high-protein foods, which can provide essential nutrients for good health. Additionally, maintaining regular sleep patterns and ensuring sufficient sleep is crucial, avoiding late nights and insufficient rest.