Soaring temperatures and increased sun exposure may be contributing to a rise in tinnitus cases, according to health experts. While sunburn is primarily known for its link to skin cancer, it may also worsen or even trigger the hearing condition that affects millions globally.
Tinnitus is characterized by the perception of sound, such as ringing or buzzing, in the ears without an external source. Experts suggest that the brain's attempt to compensate for a lack of specific sound input can lead to increased neural activity, which may manifest as tinnitus. This hyperactivity can also impair the brain's natural filtering mechanisms, similar to how sunburn impacts the skin.
"Sunburn is one of the things that doesn’t just feel painful and uncomfortable, but it can also have a big impact on our ear health," said Kayleigh Waters, an audiologist at Boots Hearing Care. "While sunburn is primarily a skin issue, leading to an increased risk of skin cancer, it can also exacerbate symptoms of tinnitus."
It is estimated that tinnitus affects around one in ten people worldwide. Experts warn that as summers become hotter, the number of individuals experiencing tinnitus could increase, particularly as intense sun exposure often leads to inflammation, a known factor in worsening the condition.
Beyond inflammation, sunburn can cause physical stress and dehydration, both of which can heighten tinnitus symptoms. Dehydration can disrupt the delicate fluid balance in the inner ear, which is essential for both hearing and balance. This disruption may lead to symptoms such as ringing, dizziness, a feeling of fullness, and muffled hearing.
To combat dehydration, especially during warmer periods, health professionals recommend increasing fluid intake. While the NHS suggests six to eight glasses of fluid daily, experts advise consuming up to ten glasses during warmer weather to maintain proper hydration.
Preventing sunburn is key to mitigating the risk of tinnitus linked to sun exposure. This includes applying and reapplying sunscreen with adequate SPF and UVA protection, limiting time spent in direct, intense sunlight, and wearing protective clothing such as wide-brimmed hats.
Globally, an estimated 750 million people are thought to suffer from tinnitus. While common triggers include ear infections, earwax buildup, or Meniere's disease, for many, the condition is long-term. Current treatments often focus on helping individuals cope with the symptoms through methods like cognitive behavioural therapy and white noise therapy.
Adhering to NHS guidance, which recommends limiting sun exposure during peak hours and using sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and a four-star UVA rating, can help protect both skin and hearing health. Experts emphasize that even for those already experiencing tinnitus, adopting sun protection measures can still be beneficial.