How to Cure Tinnitus Effexor Withdrawal
Ringing or buzzing in the ears---tinnitus---is a less common side effect of Effexor, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some people also experience tinnitus when they stop taking Effexor. If you're experiencing tinnitus as a result of Effexor withdrawal, consider trying some basic lifestyle changes, as well as supplements and diet remedies to help ease the ringing. If it's been a few months since you've taken Effexor, and you're still experiencing symptoms, contact your doctor.
Things You'll Need
- White noise machine or fan
- Gingko biloba
- Feverfew
- Ginger
- Essential fatty acids
- Olive oil
Instructions
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Use a white noise machine to ease the ringing in your ears when you're trying to sleep or relax. The "Doctors' Book of Home Remedies for Women" states that tinnitus is worse when surroundings are quiet. You could also play a CD or run a fan if you don't have a white noise machine.
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Take gingko biloba. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) says that gingko biloba is used for a wide variety of conditions and might be helpful for tinnitus. Chrystle Fiedler, author of "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Natural Remedies," says to take 40 mg three times a day. Be patient, though. It might take a few weeks to notice a difference. Fiedler and NCCAM also suggest feverfew for tinnitus relief. Feverfew has anti-inflammatory properties, which are important when trying to treat tinnitus. You could also try high does of ginger for relief. Take 300 mg of ginger twice a day.
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Incorporate essential fatty acids into your diet. Fish oil and flaxseeds are good sources. Take 3,000 to 4,000 mg of Omega-3 fatty acids a day. You could also take a tablespoon of flaxseed oil.
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Stay away from caffeine, as stimulants can aggravate tinnitus. Cigarettes, sugar, salt and alcohol can also increase your discomfort. Avoid these.
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Don't eat fatty foods, as these contribute to earwax build-up, which can worsen tinnitus. To melt excess earwax, Fiedler recommends placing a few drops of warm olive oil into your ear canal for a few days to melt the wax. Don't use a Q-tip to get rid of the wax, as it could push the wax further back in your ear and even damage your eardrum.
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Tips & Warnings
Although your tinnitus may be related to Effexor withdrawal, it's important to protect your ears from future damage. Wear earplugs and noise protectors when you're exposed to loud noises.
If your tinnitus doesn't improve with basic, at-home remedies---or if you're still experiencing tinnitus after you've been off Effexor for a few months---make an appointment with an audiologist or otolaryngologist.
Speak with your doctor before taking any medications or herbal remedies, as they could have contraindications. Though a remedy is natural, it might pose a health threat for your particular situation.
