What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus (pronounced tih-NITE-us or TIN-uh-tus) is the perception of sound from an internal source so other people cannot hear it.
Tinnitus, often a ringing sound, is estimated to affect 10 to 25% of adults and even some children to some degree. For some, tinnitus may improve or even disappear over time.
The causes of tinnitus are unclear, but most people also have some degree of hearing loss. Tinnitus is rarely associated with more serious medical problems. And it is usually not severe enough to interfere with daily life. Some people, however, find that it affects their mood and ability to sleep or concentrate.
While there’s no cure for tinnitus, there are options to manage and reduce its symptoms. From sound therapy devices to behavioral therapies and medications, options are available to help you lead a more comfortable life. This knowledge can instill a sense of hope and reassurance.
What Are the Symptoms of Tinnitus?
The symptoms of tinnitus vary significantly from person to person. The sound heard may ring, buzz, roar, whistle, hum, click, hiss, or squeal. The sound may be soft or loud or low or high-pitched. It may come and go or be present all the time. Most Tinnitus cases are subjective, meaning the sound the individual hears is not heard by others.
What Causes Tinnitus?
While the exact causes of tinnitus are still unclear, tinnitus has been linked to the following:
- Noise Exposure – Many people experience tinnitus after exposure to loud noises. Because of the loud noises they may have experienced, tinnitus is also the most common service-related disability among veterans.
- Hearing Loss -Tinnitus is associated with aging or exposure to loud noises. Some people with hearing loss do not experience any tinnitus at all.
- Medications—Tinnitus can be a side effect of certain medications, especially when taken at high doses. Medicines that trigger tinnitus as a side effect include non-steroidal or anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin), certain antibiotics, anti-cancer drugs, and antidepressants.
- Earwax or Ear Infection – Earwax or fluid from an ear infection can block the ear canal and trigger tinnitus.
- Head or Neck Injuries – A head or neck injury can cause tinnitus.
Treating Tinnitus
Treatment for tinnitus is individualized for each patient at ENT One. All of our new ear patients see one of our Otolaryngology providers as well as one of our Doctors of Audiology for their first appointment. Dr. Kristen, Dr. Maureen, and Dr. Liz are doctoral audiology professionals specializing in diagnosing and non-medical treatment of hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance disorders. They enjoy collaborating with our otolaryngology partners to provide fantastic whole-person care.
Rest assured, with this level of care at ENT One, you will determine a care plan depending on whether an underlying health condition, hearing loss, environmental factors, or a mixture of all causes your tinnitus. Examples of whole-person health treatment at ENT One that may occur if you receive a tinnitus diagnosis may include but are not limited to:
- Earwax removal – Our Otolaryngology Professionals, Laurie Burns, and Jordan Troka, are celebrated for their gentleness and exceptional care. Removing earwax blockage can decrease tinnitus symptoms.
- Treating a blood vessel condition—Underlying blood vessel conditions may require medication, surgery, or other treatment to address the problem.
- Hearing aids – If your tinnitus is caused by noise-induced or age-related hearing loss, hearing aids may help improve your symptoms.
- Changing your medication – If your medication appears to be causing tinnitus, your doctor may recommend stopping or reducing the drug or switching to a different medication.
- Behavioral Modifications – Discuss treatment options that may reduce symptoms and support your holistic care.
The Doctors of Audiology at ENTOne were voted Littleton’s best of the best for Audiogical Care and Hearing Aid Support, Purchase, and Consultation. Contact ENTOne to schedule an appointment with our excellent audiology specialists.
DISCLAIMER: Remember, this is general information and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It’s crucial to discuss any advice or suggestions with a physician before implementation. Always consult a physician for specific guidance, especially if you have pre-existing conditions. SurgOne, PC, and ENTOne PC are not liable for any adverse reactions that may occur by implementing advice or suggestions that appear here.
