Understanding Tinnitus
Tinnitus is often described as a ringing, buzzing, whooshing, or hissing sound in the ears that isn’t caused by an external source. More than 50 million Americans experience tinnitus for various reasons, and finding relief starts with understanding its symptoms and potential causes.
Symptoms of Tinnitus
Tinnitus can present in different ways, but the most common symptoms include hearing:
- Ringing
- Buzzing
- Whooshing
- Hissing
- Clicking
These sounds are typically only heard by the individual experiencing tinnitus, though in rare cases, a hearing professional may detect them during an examination. Tinnitus may be constant or intermittent, and for some, it disrupts sleep or creates the feeling that their brain never “shuts off.”
Common Causes of Tinnitus
Tinnitus can result from a variety of factors, including:
- Exposure to loud noise
- Certain medications
- Hearing loss
- Ear infections
- Ear trauma
- Earwax buildup
- Meniere’s disease
- Vascular disorders
Some causes, such as infections or earwax buildup, are temporary and can be resolved with appropriate treatment.
Tinnitus Treatment Options
Depending on the underlying cause and severity of your tinnitus, several treatment methods can help alleviate symptoms. Your hearing care provider will evaluate your condition and recommend a solution tailored to your needs.
1. Addressing the Underlying Cause
- If tinnitus is due to earwax buildup, medication, or infection, resolving the root issue can often provide relief.
- Treatments may include:
- Earwax removal
- Adjusting or switching medications
- Antibiotics for infections
- Behavioral therapy to manage the emotional impact of tinnitus, such as anxiety or frustration.
2. Hearing Aids
- Hearing aids are highly effective for treating tinnitus, even if hearing loss isn’t present.
- Many devices come with tinnitus-masking features to cover unwanted sounds and provide relief.
3. White Noise Machines
- For mild tinnitus or cases that are more disruptive at night, white noise machines can mask tinnitus sounds with steady, calming background noise.
4. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT)
- TRT helps retrain the brain to ignore or block out tinnitus sounds, easing symptoms over time.
- This therapy combines sound therapy with counseling to reduce the perception of tinnitus.
