Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a condition that causes ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears, even when there is no external noise. It can be temporary or permanent.

Tinnitus has many causes, including:

• Exposure to loud noises
• Ear infections
• Underlying health conditions

There is no cure for tinnitus, but it’s possible to find relief through treatments such as sound therapy and medication. In recent years, people have explored cannabis as another treatment option due to its potential to reduce stress, anxiety, and inflammation.

Research on cannabis for tinnitus

There is limited research on cannabis for tinnitus, and studies show mixed results. Some studies suggest that certain cannabinoids in cannabis, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), can help improve ear function. CBD may also help with related symptoms like anxiety and sleep issues.

Other studies suggest that cannabis could worsen tinnitus.

More human studies are needed to understand how cannabis affects tinnitus, and whether it’s a reliable treatment option.

Using cannabis for tinnitus

If you have tinnitus, you might consider cannabis to manage side effects like stress, poor sleep, or discomfort. Since anxiety can worsen tinnitus, cannabis strains that produce calming effects might help.

Because research is limited, practice caution when using cannabis for tinnitus and speak with your doctor before adding it to your treatment plan.

Benefits

Cannabis may offer some benefits to people with tinnitus, such as:

• Reduced anxiety: Tinnitus is often linked to stress, anxiety, and depression. High-CBD cannabis products may help with stress and mood.
• Improved sleep: Some cannabis strains may help with tinnitus-related insomnia.
• Lowered inflammation: Certain cannabinoids, including CBD, may help lower inflammation that can sometimes worsen tinnitus.

Risks and side effects

It’s important to consider the potential side effects of cannabis, which include:

• Possible worsening of symptoms: Some people report that cannabis makes tinnitus louder or more noticeable.
• Drowsiness or dizziness: High-THC cannabis strains may cause drowsiness or lightheadedness.
• Lack of research: There isn’t enough scientific evidence to confirm or deny that cannabis is an effective treatment for tinnitus.

Is it legal?

Cannabis laws vary by state. While no states list tinnitus as a qualifying condition for medical cannabis, you may qualify through related symptoms like anxiety, chronic pain, or insomnia.

More about tinnitus

Your doctor will diagnose you with tinnitus through hearing tests and medical evaluations. For some people, tinnitus symptoms improve over time, while others require long-term management.

An estimated 27 million people in the U.S. have tinnitus.

Other treatments for tinnitus

There is no cure for tinnitus, but the right treatment can help you manage its symptoms.

Traditional therapies

The most common treatments for tinnitus include:

• Hearing aids: These can amplify sounds and reduce the perception of tinnitus.
• Sound therapy: This form of therapy uses background noise to mask tinnitus.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This can help people cope with tinnitus-related stress.

Natural and alternative therapies

Some alternative therapies can be combined with traditional treatments to improve your quality of life.

• Acupuncture: Research shows that acupuncture may reduce the severity of tinnitus symptoms.
• Ginkgo biloba: This herbal supplement may reduce stress-related tinnitus.
• Relaxation techniques: Meditation and breathing exercises can reduce tinnitus-related stress.

Cannabis as part of your treatment plan for tinnitus

While cannabis is not a proven treatment for tinnitus, it may help some people manage symptoms like stress and sleeping troubles. It’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before trying cannabis. In some states, tinnitus may qualify you for a medical cannabis card, making legal access easier.

To get your medical cannabis card, connect with a Leafwell telehealth doctor today.

Frequently asked questions

Here are answers to commonly asked questions about cannabis and tinnitus.

Can cannabis cure tinnitus?

No, cannabis does not cure tinnitus, but it may help manage symptoms like anxiety and sleep disturbances.

Does cannabis make tinnitus worse?

For some people, cannabis worsens tinnitus symptoms, including ringing in the ears. However, there is little evidence that using cannabis makes tinnitus worse, although it may amplify some symptoms.

Is THC or CBD better for tinnitus?

That depends. For some people, CBD helps with tinnitus-related stress and sleeping difficulties. For others, THC is more effective, while some people report that THC worsens symptoms.

How do I know if cannabis will help my tinnitus?

It’s best to start with a low dose of a high-CBD product and monitor its effects. Ask a doctor for guidance when using cannabis for tinnitus.

If I stop smoking weed will my tinnitus go away?

There’s no evidence that smoking cannabis causes or worsens tinnitus, but some people report worsening symptoms. Consider taking a break from cannabis if you’re concerned that it’s impacting your symptoms.

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