What is Tinnitus? Tinnitus is most commonly described as a constant ringing in one’s ears, but sometimes it can sound much like roaring, hissing, buzzing, or clicking. A large majority of people experience tinnitus on some level in their life, though most tend to ignore it. It is an indication that something may be wrong with the central auditory system, which consists of the outer ear, the ear nerve, which run from the outer ear to the head, and the other parts of the body that process sound (including the central nervous system).
The cause of tinnitus varies depending on the individual. Many times tinnitus is caused by loud noises or exposure to too much noise in your daily life. Sometimes, however, it can be caused by a buildup of ear wax that can clog the canal of the ear and make hearing more difficult. Often, doctors do not diagnose tinnitus until a buildup of earwax becomes large enough to push against the eardrum and cause the ringing sound. Some people are born with this build-up of earwax, but others develop it over time.
Some symptoms of tinnitus are similar to those associated with age-related hearing loss: constant or intermittent ringing sounds, ear pain, and sensitivity to sounds close by. Sometimes tinnitus becomes so severe that it interferes with normal everyday activities such as sleeping, driving, talking on the telephone, reading books, listening to music, or other types of sounds. In some cases, people may feel a continuous ringing in their ears even when they are asleep. Sometimes tinnitus can occur with no obvious warning, only becoming apparent during certain activities or with certain sounds. These noises can range from a gentle hum to a rushing sound, and may be heard over a very small or large area.
Tinnitus, however, is not always a sign of anything serious. In most cases, the ringing sound is not a sign of a possible underlying problem. However, when tinnitus persists or worsens, it is important to consult your doctor. Even though the ringing sound is often not a symptom of a more serious problem, it should be investigated because tinnitus can be an indicator of serious medical problems.
Tinnitus can have several different causes, such as stress, a build-up of ear wax, or an overactive central nervous system. Tinnitus can also be caused by an underlying disease, such as an ear infection, a tumor, or a build-up of wax in the ears. While tinnitus itself is not harmful, a problem with the central nervous system can be serious.
Ear infections, for example, can cause constant ringing in one or both ears, which can interfere with normal hearing. Because of this, it is important to visit your doctor as soon as possible. In some cases, tinnitus can indicate an ear infection, so it is crucial to get your ears examined by a professional. Ear infections that are serious usually require surgery in order to remove the infection.
One of the main symptoms of tinnitus is ear pain. Ear pain can also indicate a blockage of the ear canal, a condition known as otitis externa. This condition is sometimes the result of a foreign object lodged in your ear. If left untreated otitis externa can lead to hearing loss.
Tinnitus, when not treated, can cause permanent damage to your hearing ability. To get relief from your tinnitus, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible.
If your tinnitus is caused by an ear infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Antibiotics may work to eliminate the infection and relieve the symptoms. The most common medications prescribed for tinnitus relief include Zovirax and Bactrim.
In rare cases, a doctor may recommend that you wear hearing aids. Hearing aids are typically worn for short periods of time, and they are designed to filter out external sounds, reducing the ringing and other annoying noises that lead to tinnitus. These devices are usually worn in one ear.
If your tinnitus is severe, your doctor may recommend that you try wearing hearing aids. These devices are similar to hearing aids, but they are made to provide sound reproduction instead of filtering noise. They are made of tiny tubes and are custom fit to the individual’s ear. If your hearing device does not work, your doctor may recommend the use of cochlear implants to restore hearing.
