Tinnitus, or hearing noises which come from no perceptible source, troubles about 20% of American adults. Sometimes related to hearing loss in seniors, tinnitus can also have other potential causes and triggers. Read on to learn more about what may trigger the ringing in your ears and how to find relief for your symptoms.
The Symptoms of Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a persistent noise which people perceive in one or both ears. There is no true outside source for the sound. However, people truly do perceive it.
Most tinnitus sufferers describe an intermittent or continuous sound such as:
- Ringing
- Roaring
- Hissing
- Static
- Chirping
- Buzzing
The volume of the perceived sound may vary as well, impacting how well people concentrate and complete ordinary tasks. Tinnitus also can be so bothersome as to cause symptoms of depression and anxiety in some individuals.
Common Causes and Triggers of Tinnitus
The root causes of tinnitus are largely unknown. However, otolaryngologists and audiologists often point to age-related and sensorineural hearing loss as a common comorbidity.
People who develop tinnitus may also have:
- Suffered an injury to the head or neck
- Chronic middle ear infections (otitis media)
- Eustachian tube blockage or malformations
- Impaired blood circulation or high blood pressure
- Jaw joint dysfunction (TMJ)
- Wax (cerumen) build-up in the ear canal
- Meniere’s disease, a chronic balance disorder
Some research also shows that tinnitus may be related to damaged hair cells in the inner ear. These cells help translate sound into electrical signals which are sent to the brain to be processed.
When these hair cells become damaged or die off, they no longer perform their function properly. The rogue sounds we refer to as tinnitus are the result.
Other precipitating factors, or triggers, for tinnitus, or an episode of tinnitus, are:
- Certain medications, such as aspirin, some antidepressants, chemotherapy, and others
- Exposure to loud noise, such as an explosion or gun fire
- Food allergies and seasonal hay fever
- Dietary elements—sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and salt in particular
- Poor sleep patterns
- Chronic job or interpersonal stress
How to Manage Symptoms of Tinnitus
Managing ear ringing can be challenging and sometimes a matter of trial and error. You should confer first with your primary care physician since they will best understand your medical history, current health conditions, and medications.
Your provider may refer you to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, or otolaryngologist, for a hearing test, physical examination, imaging, balance assessments and more. Imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scanning, check for blood vessel issues or even benign tumors called acoustic neuromas.
Your ENT physician will discuss your symptoms with you. So, be as specific as possible as to when they occur and what may relieve them.
Because tinnitus symptoms and triggers are so highly individualized, your care plan will include recommendations specific to you. Be sure to keep your ENT doctor updated on your symptoms. Tell them how you are responding to treatment and management strategies, including what works to relieve ear ringing and what does not.
Management strategies for tinnitus may include:
- Avoiding loud noises when possible and wearing hearing protection in noisy environments, such as factories and construction sites
- Using sound therapy, such as white noise machines or listening to soothing music, to help mask the tinnitus sounds
- Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, to reduce the stress levels which can worsen tinnitus symptoms
- Getting sufficient sleep on a consistent basis
- Learning cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) strategies which help reframe negative thoughts surrounding tinnitus symptoms
- Trying medications prescribed by your ENT physician (antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs or even certain vitamins)
- Controlling chronic health conditions, such as high blood pressure, TMJ, and diabetes
- Physical therapy for the jaw clenching and tooth grinding which can lead to jaw joint dysfunction
Learn More About Ear Ringing in Georgetown, TX
At Georgetown ENT, our board-certified and fellowship-trained otolaryngologist is Dr. Scott William Franklin. He understands how life-altering tinnitus can be and works hard to help his patients manage it.
If you are experiencing ear ringing or other persistent sounds, please contact our Georgetown, TX, office for a consultation with Dr. Franklin. Call us today (512) 869-0604 or request your visit online here. We look forward to providing you with the individualized care you need.
