Tinnitus is the medical term for the perception of ringing or other sounds in the ears that are not caused by an external source. If you have tinnitus, you may hear sounds like ringing, clicking, buzzing, humming, or roaring inside your head that others cannot hear. These sounds may be faint or very loud, sometimes interfering with real external noises.
In severe cases, tinnitus can make it difficult to concentrate or sleep. If left unaddressed, it may lead to frustration or even depression.
Contents
Causes of Tinnitus
Tinnitus is not a disease but a symptom of an underlying health condition, such as ear injury or age-related hearing loss. According to research, around 15% of the global population experiences tinnitus. While it can affect anyone, it is most commonly found in people between the ages of 40 and 80.
The exact cause of tinnitus is still not fully understood. However, it is known to be a common symptom of several medical conditions.
Common causes of tinnitus include:
1. Age-related hearing loss
As we age, our brains become used to a certain level of auditory stimulation. When hearing declines, the brain receives less input, but the auditory nerves remain active, causing the perception of non-existent sounds. About 1 in 3 adults over the age of 65 experience tinnitus.
2. Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)
Prolonged exposure to loud noises or sudden loud events—such as explosions or gunfire—can damage hearing and trigger tinnitus.
3. Ear injuries or trauma
Injuries to the ear may affect the nerves or brain areas responsible for hearing. Tinnitus caused by trauma often occurs in one ear only.
4. Ear conditions
Blockages from earwax or ear infections may temporarily affect hearing and cause tinnitus.
5. Side effects of medications
Certain medications can lead to tinnitus, including some antibiotics, antidepressants, chemotherapy drugs, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Less common risk factors for tinnitus include:
- Eustachian tube dysfunction
- Ménière’s disease
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
- Vestibular schwannoma (a benign tumor on the vestibular nerve)
- Otosclerosis (abnormal bone growth in the middle ear)
- Blood vessel disorders, which may cause pulsatile tinnitus—a rare type of tinnitus that matches your heartbeat
- Autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
Tinnitus symptoms may flare up after exposure to certain triggers such as stress or lack of sleep, leading to a recurring cycle of discomfort.
Diagnosing Tinnitus
Since tinnitus is a symptom of various conditions, doctors often focus on identifying and treating the underlying cause. A comprehensive evaluation is needed to make an accurate diagnosis, which may include:
- Hearing tests, such as pure-tone audiometry, speech recognition tests, and tympanometry
- Blood tests, to detect cardiovascular disease or other health conditions
- Imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans
- Dental evaluation, to determine if TMJ disorders may be contributing to tinnitus
With a thorough examination, your doctor can determine the cause of your tinnitus and develop the most appropriate treatment plan.
How to Treat Tinnitus
Treatment for tinnitus depends on the underlying cause. To better understand your condition, an audiologist will conduct a physical examination and check your ears for visible issues. They will also review your medical history and ask whether you’ve been exposed to loud sounds recently.
Depending on the results, you may be referred to an ENT specialist for further evaluation and treatment of any medical condition affecting your ears.
For many people, sound therapy has proven effective in reducing the intensity and disruption caused by tinnitus. An audiologist may recommend the following methods:
-
Using noise machines
White noise, nature sounds, or soft background music can help distract the brain and reduce tinnitus symptoms. You can purchase dedicated devices, but everyday items like fans or humidifiers can also produce soothing white noise. There are also apps and online playlists designed for this purpose.
-
Wearing in-ear noise generators
These are special earbuds that continuously emit white noise and can be used during the day to mask tinnitus. However, they are not recommended for nighttime use. If you need a device for sleep, consult your audiologist for other options, such as headbands with built-in headphones.
Complications of Tinnitus
If left untreated, tinnitus can lead to:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Communication problems
- Decreased cognitive function
Can Tinnitus Be Prevented?
Since tinnitus is a symptom of other health conditions, it cannot always be completely prevented. However, you can protect your hearing and reduce your risk by using ear protection in the following situations:
- Working in construction sites or factories
- Performing in concerts or music venues
- Participating in fitness classes with loud music
- Attending concerts or watching movies in cinemas with high sound levels
- Using power tools, lawnmowers, or other loud equipment
- Engaging in recreational shooting or hunting
Also, be cautious when using headphones or earbuds. Keep the volume at a safe level to avoid hearing damage.
Audiologists can provide custom earplugs tailored to your needs. If your activities frequently expose you to loud noises, consider scheduling a consultation with an audiologist.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Book an appointment with a healthcare professional if you experience:
- Tinnitus lasting more than a week
- Hearing loss
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Tinnitus that sounds like a heartbeat
If you experience sudden hearing loss along with tinnitus, consult a doctor immediately. Early treatment is most effective within the first three days after symptom onset.
ENT Center at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
If you are experiencing tinnitus or ringing in your ears, don’t hesitate to visit Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri. Our ENT Center is staffed by experienced and highly skilled ENT specialists, including those trained in managing tinnitus.
ENT specialists are available every day from Monday to Saturday, making it easier for you to receive timely care.
To make your visit more convenient, use the Chat via WhatsApp, Book Appointment feature, or download the Care Dokter app on Google Play or the App Store. These tools help you check queue numbers, make appointments, and access complete information with ease.
