Tinnitus describes hearing noise when no external sound is actually present in the environment. This sound is most often described as a ringing, buzzing, or clicking-like noise that can be heard in one or both ears. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 50 million people experience some form of tinnitus which is not a condition itself but rather, a symptom of an underlying health issue.
Tinnitus can be experienced temporarily or as a chronic condition that is debilitating. Nearly 20 million people live with chronic tinnitus which can take a toll on daily life. Though there are no cures for tinnitus, there are effective treatment options that alleviate the impact it can have; allowing people to live and navigate daily life more comfortably.
What Causes Tinnitus?
Though the most common cause of tinnitus is hearing loss – according to the American Tinnitus Association – there are nearly 200 different health conditions that can produce tinnitus as a symptom. Some of the most common conditions include:
- Hearing Loss: there are several factors that can contribute to hearing loss including aging, environmental exposure to loud noise, existing medical conditions, and head injuries. Most commonly, hair cells in the inner ear are damaged and/or lose sensitivity. These hair cells are responsible for translating soundwaves into electrical signals that are then sent to the brain to be processed; allowing us to understand what we hear. Unlike other types of cells, hair cells in the inner ear do not regenerate and there are no medical interventions that can repair them. This means that any damage is irreparable, leading to permanent hearing loss.
- Obstructions in the Middle Ear: physical blockages in the ear canal can cause pressure and/or bacteria to accumulate. This can lead to irritation, infection, or impact the eardrum; producing tinnitus symptoms. Obstructions in the middle ear can include: earwax buildup, dirt or debris, foreign objects, hair etc. Typically, these obstructions can be removed which alleviates tinnitus.
- Head Injuries: brute force to the head and/or neck area can cause nerve damage, impact blood flow, and create muscle issues that can trigger tinnitus.
- TMJ: temporomandibular joint disorder is characterized by damage to or misalignment of the temporomandibular joint. This joint connects the lower jaw to the skull and is what allows the jaw to open and close. TMJ occurs when the joint’s cartilage is damaged or the joint is misaligned, resulting in facial pain and aches. Because this joint is adjacent to the auditory system, sharing nerve connections with the middle ear; it can also produce tinnitus.
- Ototoxic Drugs: there are numerous prescription medications that produce tinnitus as a side-effect. If these medications are taken on a short-term basis, then tinnitus is typically temporary. However, there are certain medications that contribute to longer-term tinnitus. This includes some antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, certain cancer medications, etc. You should thoroughly discuss any potential side-effects of medications with your healthcare provider.
- Other Medical Conditions: additional common medical conditions that can cause tinnitus include hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, autoimmune disorders like lyme disease, high blood pressure, anxiety, depression etc.
Treating Hearing Loss
It is estimated that 90% of all tinnitus cases occur with underlying hearing loss. So if you experience tinnitus, it is incredibly important to have your hearing assessed. The first step simply involves scheduling an appointment for a comprehensive hearing exam. Conducted by a hearing healthcare specialist, hearing tests involve a painless and non-invasive process that measures hearing capacity in both ears. This identifies any impairment, the degree, adn specific type of hearing loss you could be experiencing.
The most common treatment for hearing loss is hearing aids which are electronic devices that are designed to absorb, amplify, and process sound. This provides ample hearing support, allowing people to hear and communicate much more clearly and effectively. Hearing aids not only transform hearing health but also alleviate hearing loss symptoms including tinnitus.
Tips to Manage Tinnitus
In addition to having your hearing tested, there are a few ways you can effectively manage tinnitus:
- Reduce stress: identify and eliminate sources of stress or find ways to healthily process stress which triggers tinnitus
- Use ambient noise to mask tinnitus
- Increase physical activity
- Create optimal conditions for quality sleep
If you have been experiencing tinnitus, we’re here to help! Contact us today to learn more about tinnitus solutions.