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Frequent use of OTC pain relievers linked to tinnitusStudy adds to understanding of how some drugs can trigger hearing problems
Contributed by Joy Victory, managing editor, Healthy Hearing New data analysis from the large Nurses’ Health Study II found that women who reported frequent use of certain over-the-counter painkillers were more likely to report a history of tinnitus, as well. ![]() hearing problems, including tinnitus. This new study sheds more light on the risks related to OTC pain relievers. The longitudinal study looked at the overlap between women who take common OTC pain relievers and a history of tinnitus, or ringing in the ears. The pain relievers included aspirin and acetaminophen and other NSAIDs like naproxen. "Frequent use" was defined as taking the medication every day or almost every day. Specifically, the study found:
Ototoxic drugs can be harmful to hearingIn a news release about the study findings, the research authors said more study is needed, as the study was not designed to prove whether painkillers caused tinnitus. However, people should still be mindful that all drugs carry side effects. “OTC analgesics clearly have benefits with short-term use. However, frequent use of these medications and use over long periods of time may increase the risk of tinnitus and may cause other adverse health effects," said lead author Sharon Curhan, MD, ScM, of the Brigham’s Channing Division of Network Medicine. "Therefore, it is important to take these medications mindfully and to limit their use as much as possible, and to discuss any change in medication use, whether prescription or non-prescription, with your health-care provider.” The study isn't the first to surface a link between common pain relievers and tinnitus. Several other studies have shown that OTC pain relievers may cause hearing loss and tinnitus, but generally only after prolonged use of very high doses. When that happens, the damage is usually reversible after the drugs are stopped. This new study is the first to look at possible medical causes of chronic tinnitus. Besides pain relievers, there are many other "ototoxic drugs," which means they carry side effects that can trigger or worsen hearing loss, tinnitus and dizziness. Tinnitus is very commonAbout 1 in 10 people report frequent tinnitus. The symptoms (or sound) can vary a lot and may come and go. Tinnitus has many potential causes. Some people report their diet worsens their tinnitus, for example. However, most of the time the cause is not known. One thing that is clear—tinnitus and hearing loss often go hand-in-hand. As the ear's fragile hair cells deteriorate, tinnitus can be more common. Related: Joy Victory, managing editor, Healthy Hearing
Related Help Pages:
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) Symptoms Causes Relief Diagnosis and treatment Meniere's disease Dizziness
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