Concise Tinnitus Information

Many conditions can contribute to phantom noises, for example buzzing, roaring, racing, hissing and clicking sounds or ringing ears. These indicators are usually lumped under the diagnosis of tinnitus.

So, what is tinnitus? 

Tinnitus, which affects about one in five people, refers to ringing or noise disturbance in a one or both ears It occurs where there is no additional external sound or cause. Though tinnitus can be very bothersome, it usually is not a indicator of a serious condition. It can however be a red-flag that something more serious may be present.

Is tinnitus preventable?

Many people with tinnitus also have a history of noise exposure throughout their careers and report hearing loss. For example employment in power plants,  gardening with power tools, or engaging in noisy outdoor recreation, such as  hunting or motor sports. Using earplugs when doing any noisy activities is the key preventative intervention.

What are some of the causes of tinnitus?

Outer hair cell damage inside the inner ear is believed  to be the most common  cause. Age-related hearing losses, serious health conditions, conditions that affect the auditory nerves or brain’s reading core, contact with loud sound, changes in ear bones, some illnesses and blood disorders and also stress and depression may cause tinnitus. Furthermore, some drugs, including medicines or aspirin, could cause or worsen tinnitus..

What can cure tinnitus?

Loud noise, liquor coffee, strain and sleep deprivation may exacerbate tinnitus. Because pressure could trigger increased tinnitus, relaxation therapy, tinnitus management and regular exercise, rest and even biofeedback are vital in stress reduction. Clients may have heard about new and special products promoted as a treatment. Clients should be aware that regulatory bodies like the FDA has NOT authorized some of these products. Despite the marketing claims, there really is no magic pill that solutions tinnitus.

How can signs be reduced?

The first step would be to undergo an expert assessment with a doctor of audiology if experiencing tinnitus. An audiologist provides a combination of counseling and sound stimulation. Enhancing sound from the environmental using hearing aids, music or noise generators might help manage tinnitus. Stress is the enemy when experiencing tinnitus. Individuals are affected differently, but it’s probably another factor along with chronic fatigue, problems sleeping, trouble concentrating or remembering things, anxiety and frustration and depression.

I have heard that i should go see an audiologist, can this really help?

If you’ve had a chill or respiratory disease you may develop tinnitus. If the tinnitus does not lessen within a week make an appointment with an audiologist. If you develop tinnitus very abruptly and without the apparent cause, especially if it is accompanied with dizziness or hearing loss, you must make an appointment with the audiologist immediately.

What should i expect when speaking to an audiologist?

Expect to speak about any health issues and provide a listing of drugs you take, including herbal or alternative supplements and vitamin supplements. The audiologist’s first step will be to conduct a hearing exam. Depending on the results of the test and the audiologist’s analysis, there are certainly a variety of treatments that can decrease symptoms. They range from solutions as simple as removing impacted earwax to discovering technological devices that control tinnitus.