Tinnitus

Understanding the ringing in your ears

Do you experience ringing in your ears, even though there’s nothing nearby to explain it? It might be tinnitus. While it can be annoying, tinnitus is usually not a serious problem or cause for concern. The ringing sound often goes away after a few minutes. As we get older, many of us start to experience tinnitus. For some of us, it begins even before our golden years.

Tinnitus doesn’t always sound like ringing. It can sound like hissing, clicking, roaring, humming, or buzzing. Any noise that has no apparent cause could be a case of tinnitus.

You normally don’t need medical attention for tinnitus, but if the noise is particularly distracting, occurs frequently, or is accompanied by dizziness, you should schedule an appointment with your primary doctor or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist.

What causes tinnitus?

Tinnitus is not a medical condition. It’s a symptom of an underlying issue. It can be caused by various factors, including:

• Age-related hearing loss — As we age, the structures in our inner ear naturally degenerate, often leading to hearing loss and tinnitus.
• Certain medications — Some medications, especially high doses of aspirin, certain antibiotics, and cancer medications, can cause tinnitus.
• Ear infections — Infections in the ear can trigger tinnitus symptoms.
• Earwax blockage — Earwax can accumulate in the ear canal, causing irritation and tinnitus.
• Exposure to loud noise — Prolonged exposure to loud noises such as concerts or heavy machinery can damage the delicate hair cells in your inner ear, leading to tinnitus.
• Health conditions — Conditions like high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and Meniere's disease are associated with tinnitus.

What to do if you may have tinnitus

If you suspect you have tinnitus, make an appointment with an ENT. Our experienced specialists at West Jefferson Medical Center can conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine the cause and severity of your tinnitus. During your consultation, we’ll discuss your symptoms, review your medical history, conduct a hearing test, and perform a physical exam. We’ll then develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Treatment options for tinnitus

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to tinnitus treatment because the underlying causes vary. Because you’re one-of-a-kind, we offer one-of-a-kind care based on your needs. Typical treatment options may include:

• Hearing aids — For people with hearing loss accompanying tinnitus, hearing aids can enhance overall hearing and reduce tinnitus symptoms.
• Sound therapy — Masking the tinnitus sound with a more pleasant external noise, such as white noise or nature sounds, can provide relief.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) — CBT techniques help manage the emotional distress caused by tinnitus, improving your overall well-being.
• Medication — In some cases, medicine can alleviate symptoms or address the underlying conditions contributing to tinnitus.
• Lifestyle changes — Avoiding loud noises, managing stress, and regulating caffeine intake can help minimize tinnitus symptoms.

At West Jefferson, we’re dedicated to providing the expert care you deserve. To explore all your hearing-related treatment options, call us directly at 504.934.8550 or schedule an appointment online.