Tinnitus experience
So for some unknown reason I've been suffering from low level reactive tinnitus AND evil hyperacusis for the last year.
(I have a theory based on speaking with my pharmacist - most antibiotics are otoxic and I was on a bad one for 3 months - never take an antibiotic with a name ending in xacin, norfloxacin for example)
To be honest it hasn't interfered with my listening pleasure for about 6 months (the first 6 months was a learning curve of understanding what made the problem worse) - as long as I've taken precautions not to trigger them (loud screechy noises beforehand, no marijuana) but that hasn't always been possible and the hyperacusis has really been a problem out in the street and at work so I've tried everything from chewing Turmeric powder to all the quack remedies out there as well as wearing ear plugs 24/7 unless in the house.
Well I've finally found a combination of medication that has reduced the tinnitus to the point where I'm not aware of it unless I listen for it, and the hyperacusis is reduced and tolerable.
After researching and researching I first put myself on Neurontin (gabapentin) which improved things 50% - but after 6 weeks I also put myself on Tegretol (carbamazepine). Both these drugs are anti epileptic and also used for facial neuralgia. They stop nerves getting overexcited. This has improved things another 40%, though I've only been on them a few days.
Now I'm lucky in that I can get these without having to try and convince a doctor that they might help an ear problem that drives you to suicide - but it really should be discussed with a doctor before trying them, they have side effects though I haven't experienced any, and you have to avoid alcohol. The reason why they can be dangerous is the way that Tegretol speeds up the metabolism of the liver meaning any other meds you might be on are got rid of quicker, so dosages need to be adjusted. This has to be discussed with your doctor.
So - they have worked at reducing my problems 90% - problems that unless you've experienced them you cannot understand - particularly the hyperacusis which has changed my personality and destroyed my social life. I haven't discussed it with a doctor (bad boy) but I'm not on any other medication - and to be honest I'll take the risk if it gives me my life and my love of sound back.
Adey
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