What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound source is present. It's commonly described as ringing, buzzing, humming, or whistling in the ears.
Types of Tinnitus
-
Subjective Tinnitus
- Most common form (95% of cases)
- Only the patient can hear the sound
- Often related to auditory and neurological reactions
-
Objective Tinnitus
- Rare form (5% of cases)
- Can be heard by an examining physician
- Usually caused by blood vessel issues, muscle contractions, or bone conditions
Common Causes
- Noise-induced hearing loss
- Age-related hearing changes
- Earwax blockage
- Head/neck injuries
- Blood vessel disorders
- Medications (ototoxic drugs)
- Acoustic neuroma
Diagnosis
Your doctor may perform:
- Physical examination
- Hearing tests
- Movement tests
- Imaging studies (if necessary)
Treatment Options
Conservative Approaches
- Sound therapy
- Hearing aids
- White noise machines
- Relaxation techniques
Medical Interventions
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Tinnitus retraining therapy
- Medications for underlying conditions
Living with Tinnitus
Self-Help Strategies
- Avoid silence
- Practice stress management
- Limit caffeine and alcohol
- Maintain good sleep habits
- Join support groups
When to Seek Help
Consult a healthcare provider if your tinnitus:
- Develops suddenly
- Affects daily activities
- Causes anxiety or depression
- Is accompanied by dizziness or hearing loss
Prevention
- Protect ears from loud noises
- Keep volume moderate when using headphones
- Take regular breaks from noise exposure
- Maintain cardiovascular health