Tinnitus

Tinnitus, also referred to as ringing in the ears, can be intermittent or continuous. The sounds can be confined to one ear, or be present in both. Tinnitus is not a disease, but a symptom that may result from a variety of causes including foreign objects or wax in ears, ear infections, or nasal allergies that prevent fluid drainage. It can also be caused by the aging process or as a side effect of either medications or congenital hearing loss. The most common cause of tinnitus, however, is noise-induced hearing loss.

Tinnitus can interfere with being able to hear the actual sounds around you and can also disturb sleep. It is is more common in the elderly but can occur at any age. Tinnitus can also lead to problems with concentration and can contribute to depression.

The most common cause of tinnitus is damage to the nerves in the inner ear. This be caused by exposure to excessive noise such as that generated by loud music or power tools. Other causes of tinnitus include wax in the ear, otosclerosis, Meniere's syndrome and anemia. You can also have temporary tinnitus with a cold.

Tinnitus and associated hearing loss can be permanent. If ringing in the ears follows a lengthy exposure to loud noise, such as a concert or industrial environment, it is possible that lasting has occurred.http://www.4hearingloss.com/archives/2005/10/hear_loud_and_c.html Anyone who is exposed to continuous loud noise, such as those who use loud electrical appliances routinely, musicians, or DJs, should take care to use special earplugs or earmuffs designed to lower the associated volume that limits noise exposure.

Check any medications for potential ototoxicity. Discuss reducing the dosage interval or level to reduce any potential damage.http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/tandf/soto/2001/00000121/00000005/art00004

Tinnitus is generally addressed by treating the underlying cause of the symptoms. If the cause can't be identified or resolved, treatment is geared toward coping with it in daily life.MayoClinic.com: Tinnitus

“We’ve discovered that tinnitus is not so much ringing in the ears as ringing in the brain.”—Thomas J. Brozoski, Southern Illinois UniversityThe New York Times: New Therapies Fight Phantom Noises of Tinnitus (April 1, 2008)

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you are experiencing Tinnitus, please consult your doctor.