The Overlap Between Tinnitus and Alzheimer's

Historically, tinnitus has shown strong links with Alzheimer's. This disease is caused by damage to neurons in parts of the brain that control memory, hearing, speech, and language, all of which are depreciated functions in individuals with Alzheimer’s. Read on to learn some ways of which tinnitus and Alzheimer's are linked. 

In cases of both tinnitus and Alzheimer's, the hippocampus region in the brain has been found to be altered. The hippocampus is responsible for many daily functions, including: 

• creating long-term memories
• learning new information 
• making decisions 
• holding conversations 
• navigating familiar environments 
• recognizing names & faces 

However, it's particularly vulnerable to damage, especially from chronic stress. Hence, it serves as a prime target for both tinnitus and Alzheimer's. Recent studies have shown that individuals with chronic tinnitus often exhibit structural and functional changes in the hippocampus. Similarly, in Alzheimer's disease, individuals often demonstrate hippocampal degeneration, an early and defining sign. 

The impacts of tinnitus go beyond the patients' ears, extending into their brains. The overlaps between these two conditions suggest that tinnitus may be more than just an auditory issue, it may reflect deeper neurological vulnerabilities that also play a role in cognitive decline.

There are also social factors independent of the brain that intertwine these disorders. When an individual experiences hearing loss, they tend to isolate themselves from society due to fear of making mistakes while communicating. Long-term seclusion induces the risk of dementia. The chain reaction set off by tinnitus that ultimately results in dementia may explain their concurrent appearances.

These connections, however, are not the result of a cause-and-effect relationship. The association between tinnitus and dementia is still being evaluated, as it currently holds no scientific evidence. Tinnitus may instead act as a precursor, given that it contributes to hearing loss which is tied to an increased risk of dementia. So while tinnitus may not be the immediate cause, it sets off certain factors that eventually lead to Alzheimer’s. 

Social engagement plays a large role in keeping the brain active. Talking with others, navigating social cues, and listening in a group setting all stimulate memory and attention. Without those interactions, the brain misses out on regular exercise. That’s why researchers have found that people with untreated hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop dementia later in life. 

Tinnitus can also contribute to anxiety and depression, which further discourage social interaction. If someone is constantly distracted by internal noise, they may struggle to stay present in conversations or feel overwhelmed in noisy environments. This can lead to a cycle: tinnitus causes stress, stress worsens tinnitus, and both make socializing harder. 

So while tinnitus doesn’t directly cause Alzheimer’s, it can quietly reshape someone’s lifestyle in ways that increase their vulnerability. 

Tinnitus isn’t just about hearing a sound that isn't there. It can affect how the brain handles information, how people focus, and how they feel emotionally. The overlap with Alzheimer’s suggests that tinnitus might be part of a bigger picture, one that includes memory, thinking, and mental health.