October 30, 2025

Managing Tinnitus Symptoms at Night: Advice from Wild Rose Audiology Clinic in Alberta

If you’re one of the many Albertans living with tinnitus, you may have noticed that the ringing, buzzing, or hissing in your ears seems to intensify at night. You’re not imagining it, this is a common experience among tinnitus sufferers. But why does this happen, and more importantly, what can you do to find relief?

The Nighttime Tinnitus Mystery

Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the ears or head without an external source. It affects millions of Canadians between the ages of 25 and 65, and while it can occur at any time, many report that symptoms feel more disruptive during the evening hours. There are several reasons for this:

1. Reduced ambient noise

During the day, environmental sounds, conversations, traffic, music, help mask the internal noise of tinnitus. At night, when the world quiets down, the absence of background noise makes the ringing or buzzing more noticeable.

2. Increased mental focus

As you wind down for bed, your mind is less occupied with distractions. This shift in focus can make you more aware of bodily sensations, including tinnitus. The quiet and stillness of bedtime can amplify your perception of the sound.

3. Stress and fatigue

Stress is a known trigger for tinnitus. After a long day, mental and physical fatigue can heighten your sensitivity to tinnitus. Additionally, anxiety about falling asleep or staying asleep can create a feedback loop, making the symptoms feel worse.

4. Changes in blood flow and pressure

Lying down can alter blood flow and pressure in the head and ears, which may affect how tinnitus is perceived. Some individuals report that their symptoms spike when they recline or turn their head in certain positions.

What You Can Do about It

At Wild Rose Audiology Clinic, we understand how disruptive nighttime tinnitus can be. Our team of experienced audiologists in Edmonton and Barrhead offers personalized care to help you manage your symptoms and improve your sleep quality.

Here are some practical strategies you can try:

Sound Therapy

Using a white noise machine, fan, or calming nature sounds can help mask tinnitus at night. Wild Rose Audiology Clinic can recommend sound therapy devices tailored to your needs.

Cognitive Behavioural Techniques

CBT has been shown to reduce the distress caused by tinnitus. Techniques include relaxation exercises, mindfulness, and reframing negative thoughts. Our audiologists can guide you toward resources or professionals who specialize in tinnitus-related CBT.

Hearing Aids with Tinnitus Masking Features

If your tinnitus is accompanied by hearing loss, hearing aids may help. Many modern devices include features designed to help mask tinnitus sounds and improve overall hearing clarity. At Wild Rose Audiology Clinic, we provide personalized fittings and consultations to help you find the right hearing solution for your needs.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, managing stress, and maintaining a consistent sleep routine can all contribute to better tinnitus management. Our team can help you identify lifestyle factors that may be influencing your symptoms.

Professional Assessment

If your tinnitus is persistent or worsening, it’s important to seek a professional evaluation. Wild Rose Audiology Clinic provides comprehensive hearing assessments and tinnitus consultations to help pinpoint the cause and recommend effective solutions.