The Costco Connection - February 2014

how you react.” Find a practitioner here: www.nacbt.org/searchfortherapists.asp or www.abct.org/Members.

Detach from your thoughts

A pilot study conducted using mindful-ness-based stress reduction, based on Jon Kabat-Zinn’s work at the world-renowned Stress Reduction Clinic he founded at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, showed that when people with tinnitus learned through meditation and other exercises to become more aware of their thinking, and observed thoughts without engaging, it reduced their depression and anxiety and improved social functioning and mental health.

Try alternative treatments

Low-risk treatments such as taking minerals like magnesium or zinc, herbal preparations such as ginkgo biloba or homeopathic remedies, or supplementing with B vitamins, or practices such as acupuncture and cranio-sacral therapy, hyperbaric oxygen or hypnosis, can be worth trying, but check with your health practitioner first.

“Although, on the whole, research doesn’t support these treatments, on an individual basic they can provide relief,” says Newman.

Eat well, reduce stimulants

“Good nutrition and a healthy balanced diet can help overall with tinnitus,” says Eisenman, a Costco member. “It’s also important to cut out stimulants like sugar and caffeine.”

Improve body mechanics

If you have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, using a properly fitted night guard that prevents clenching of teeth can ease tinnitus. Physical therapists can help by giving you neck exercises and correcting your posture. Use custom-fitted ear plugs to protect your hearing.

Educate yourself

Information is power. When you learn about tinnitus, practice coping strategies and connect with others, it demystifies your condition. “The more you understand tinnitus and realize that you’re not alone,” says Newman, “it won’t take up as much importance in your life and [will] be easier to live with.” C

Author Chrystle Fiedler ( www.chrystle fiedler.com) specializes in writing about health issues.

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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.