Tinnitus, a phantom ringing or buzzing in the ears, leads many to explore remedies like zinc supplementation. Does zinc help with tinnitus?
Understanding Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the ears or head when no external source is present, manifesting as ringing, buzzing, or other sounds. It is a common experience, affecting approximately 15% to 20% of people, with about 10% to 15% experiencing it chronically.
Tinnitus is a symptom of an underlying issue rather than a disease itself. Common factors associated with its development include age-related hearing loss, exposure to loud noise, and the use of certain medications. Other contributing conditions can involve ear injuries, circulatory system problems, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction.
Most cases of tinnitus are subjective, meaning only the affected individual can hear the sound. In rare instances, tinnitus can be objective, where a healthcare professional might also detect the sound during an examination.
The Role of Zinc in the Body
Zinc is an essential trace mineral involved in numerous biological processes. It is the second most abundant trace mineral, after iron, and is present in every cell. Zinc contributes to immune system function, cell growth and repair, and the synthesis of DNA and proteins.
The mineral also acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage. Zinc plays a role in nerve function and signaling, influencing neurotransmitter activity, and is important for the senses of taste and smell.
A high concentration of zinc is found in the inner ear, particularly in the cochlea, suggesting its involvement in auditory health. Recent research indicates that an excess of free-floating zinc in the inner ear can lead to cellular damage and disrupt communication between sensory cells, contributing to noise-induced hearing loss.
Zinc and Tinnitus: The Evidence
Research exploring the effectiveness of zinc supplementation for tinnitus has yielded mixed results. Some older studies have suggested a potential benefit for individuals who have both tinnitus and a diagnosed zinc deficiency.
However, comprehensive reviews of the evidence present a less conclusive picture. A 2016 Cochrane review, for instance, found no clear evidence that oral zinc supplementation improves tinnitus symptoms in adults. This review highlighted the low quality of existing studies, often citing small sample sizes and the use of non-validated assessment tools.
A 2019 clinical trial investigating zinc supplementation in patients with noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) associated tinnitus reported some improvements in Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) scores, particularly in younger adults. Despite these subjective improvements, the study did not observe changes in objective hearing parameters. The study lacked a placebo group, limiting generalizability.
Current clinical guidelines generally do not recommend zinc supplementation as a primary treatment for persistent or bothersome tinnitus. While zinc’s presence in the auditory system suggests a theoretical role, conclusive evidence supporting widespread efficacy for the general tinnitus population is still lacking.
Considerations for Zinc Supplementation
Zinc is readily available in many dietary sources, such as oysters, red meat, poultry, and seafood. Nuts, whole grains, fortified breakfast cereals, and legumes also provide the mineral.
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for adult men is 11 milligrams (mg) per day, and for adult women, it is 8 mg per day. The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for zinc is 40 mg per day for adults.
Taking zinc supplements in excess of the UL can lead to various side effects. Side effects of excess zinc include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, headaches, and appetite loss. Chronic high doses, typically ranging from 150 mg to 450 mg per day, can interfere with copper absorption, potentially leading to a copper deficiency.
A copper deficiency can result in neurological issues, altered iron function, and a reduced immune response. Zinc supplements can also interact with certain medications, including some antibiotics (like quinolones and tetracyclines) and penicillamine, potentially reducing their effectiveness. It is advisable to take these medications several hours apart from zinc supplements.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Tinnitus can sometimes signal an underlying medical condition that requires professional attention. Therefore, consult a doctor or an audiologist for a proper diagnosis. This is especially true if the tinnitus is new, worsening, or accompanied by other symptoms such as hearing loss, dizziness, or pain.
A healthcare professional can conduct a thorough evaluation to identify any potential serious causes of tinnitus. They can also discuss appropriate, evidence-based management strategies tailored to an individual’s specific situation.