Iron-deficiency Anemia and Tinnitus- How Are They Related?



Are you hearing any ringing or buzzing sounds without external sound stimulus? Tinnitus might be responsible for your perception of such noise. It is a common condition affecting about 10% to 30% of the elderly population. Several factors can contribute to tinnitus, including iron-deficiency anemia.

How can iron deficiency cause ringing in the ears?

Iron helps your blood cells to carry oxygen from your lungs to other parts of your body. Iron deficiency can cause the arteries to pump harder to deliver more blood. These changes in blood flow will not go unheard by your sensitive ears.

Iron deficiency can lead to pulsatile tinnitus, where those affected can hear their pulse or heartbeat in their ears. Pulsatile tinnitus must be reported right away as it might indicate a serious heart condition.

Can anemia-induced tinnitus be cured?

Tinnitus caused by iron deficiency is treatable. You can consume more iron-rich food to reduce the loudness and intensity of tinnitus. A few good sources of iron include:

  • Red meat
  • Poultry
  • Dried fruits
  • Leafy green vegetables
  • Cereals
  • Seafood

Transfusion of red blood cells is another way to manage anemia and related tinnitus symptoms.

How can iron supplements help anemia?

Iron pills are a great way to compensate for iron deficiency and increase the count of red blood cells. Oral iron supplements, including pills, capsules, and extended-release tablets, effectively cure anemia by increasing iron and hemoglobin levels in your body, consequently alleviating tinnitus symptoms.

Hoffmann Audiology can help you manage your tinnitus!

Hearing troubles caused by tinnitus must be diagnosed and treated in time. Dealing with tinnitus can be utterly exhausting because it can affect your social life, work life, and other routine activities. At Hoffmann Audiology, we provide specialized care for patients with tinnitus.

Our initial treatment methods include:

  • Earwax removal- we will clean your ears to remove excessive wax buildup
  • Switching your medication – in case your tinnitus is being triggered by current medication
  • Behavioural therapy- to address any signs of depression, anxiety, anger, or stress

We also provide hearing aids to mask the patient’s perception of troubling sounds. Our tinnitus retraining therapy can help train your mind to hear and block certain noises, easing your symptoms.

Schedule an appointment with our audiologist, Dr. Chris Hoffmann, if you are looking for tinnitus therapy near you.


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Chris Lin Hoffmann

Dr. Chris Hoffmann is an audiologist who has been involved in hearing sciences for over 20 years. Her passion for helping people with their hearing led her to establish Hoffmann Audiology hearing clinic. Dr. Hoffmann has more than 14 years of clinical knowledge in hearing testing, hearing aid fittings, and aural rehabilitation.


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