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| - Last Updated on April 30, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that a herbal ear spray can treat tinnitus. After fact checking, we term it as false.
The Claim
According to a social media post, apparently shared by Dr Mahi Singh, one can treat tinnitus with the use of a herbal ear spray, that too, within mere 10 days. It further states if you do not apply the ear spray it can lead to hearing loss.
Fact Check
Herbal and homemade remedies are very popular around the globe due to their ease of access and affordability. But they can pose serious threats to one’s health if not used properly and without professional advice.
What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus refers to the perception of sound without an external source, meaning others cannot hear it. While often described as a ringing sound, it can also manifest as roaring, buzzing, or other auditory sensations. Surveys suggest a highly variable range of 4% to 37% of adults experiencing tinnitus, and even children can be affected. Though for some, tinnitus may improve or disappear over time, it can also worsen and become chronic, persisting for three months or longer.
The exact causes of tinnitus are still unclear, but most individuals with the condition have some level of hearing loss. Tinnitus can impact quality of life by affecting mood, sleep, and concentration. In severe cases, it may even lead to anxiety or depression.
Can a herbal ear spray treat tinnitus?
No, herbal ear sprays can not treat tinnitus. While herbal remedies may claim to alleviate tinnitus symptoms, there is limited scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. Herbal ear sprays, like other herbal remedies, are often marketed as natural alternatives for various health conditions, including tinnitus. However, it’s essential to approach such claims with caution and scepticism.
Moreover, this claim has been shared from the fake social media page using the name of Dr Mahi Singh. Other than a photo, there are no credentials mentioned on the page. Upon doing a reverse Google Reverse Image Search we found out that the photo belongs to Dr Mugdha D Vartak (Obs & Gyn) from Ameya Clinic, Pune. Here is a screenshot of the same:
It is also claimed in the video that the St Luke’s Hospital, Singapore has created the herbal ear spray. But, we found no such ear spray or medication for tinnitus on the hospital’s website. In fact, the word tinnitus did not yield any results on their website. Furthermore, any reputed and trustworthy pharma company would never use a fake profile to advertise their product, it just diminishes the credibility of the product.
Tinnitus is a complex condition with diverse underlying causes, ranging from hearing loss to medical conditions and exposure to loud noises. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for tinnitus, and what works for one person may not work for another.
During our research we contacted Dr Kanchan Chaudhary (MBBS, MS Otorhinolaryngology) for expert advice. She says, “It’s important to understand that relying on herbal ear sprays to treat tinnitus is completely wrong and should be avoided at all costs. Tinnitus refers to any continuous sound in the ear, like ringing, that disrupts daily activities and sleep. It can stem from various causes such as ear infections like acute otitis media (AOM) or chronic otitis media (COM), noise-induced hearing loss, or benign lesions. It could also signal underlying inner ear issues or even a brain tumour.”
Dr Chaudhary further continues, “Ignoring tinnitus can have serious consequences, including the risk of depression, if left untreated. Herbal sprays are not effective in treating tinnitus; in fact, they can create an environment conducive to fungal infections in the ear, leading to a condition called otomycosis. This condition can be particularly severe in diabetic patients. Hence, it’s important for patients to seek proper medical care for tinnitus rather than relying on herbal remedies.”
Is there a cure for tinnitus?
As of now, there is no universally recognised cure for tinnitus. Tinnitus has various underlying causes, and its management involves addressing those causes and alleviating associated symptoms rather than completely eliminating the perception of tinnitus itself.
However, while there may not be a cure in the traditional sense, many individuals find relief from tinnitus through various treatment approaches. These may include sound therapy, counselling, medications, lifestyle modifications, and management of underlying conditions contributing to tinnitus.
Research into potential treatments for tinnitus is ongoing, and advancements are being made in understanding the mechanisms behind the condition and developing a cure. While a definitive cure has not yet been found, many individuals with tinnitus are able to effectively manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives with the support of healthcare professionals.
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