Symptoms of Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. The symptoms can vary from person to person and may present as:
- Ringing, buzzing, humming, or hissing sounds in one or both ears.
- Intermittent or continuous perception of sound.
- Changes in pitch and volume of the perceived sound.
- Increased severity in quiet environments or at night.
- Associated difficulties such as difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, or heightened sensitivity to external sounds.
Common Causes of Tinnitus
Tinnitus is not a disease itself but a symptom of an underlying condition. Some common causes include:
- Hearing Loss: Damage to the hair cells in the cochlea due to aging or noise exposure.
- Noise-Induced Tinnitus: Prolonged exposure to loud environments such as concerts, firearms, or heavy machinery.
- Earwax Blockage: Excess earwax can cause pressure changes and lead to tinnitus symptoms.
- Ear Infections: Infections or fluid buildup in the middle ear can result in temporary tinnitus.
- Medications: Certain drugs, such as high doses of aspirin, some antibiotics, and chemotherapy agents, are known to cause tinnitus.
- High Blood Pressure and Cardiovascular Disease: Poor circulation and increased blood pressure can lead to pulsatile tinnitus.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: Jaw misalignment or tension can contribute to tinnitus symptoms.
- Stress and Anxiety: Emotional distress can heighten tinnitus perception.
Types of Tinnitus
Tinnitus can be classified into two main types:
- Subjective Tinnitus: The most common form, which only the affected person can hear. It is often related to hearing loss or auditory system dysfunction.
- Objective Tinnitus: A rare type where the sound can be heard by both the individual and a healthcare provider. This type is usually due to vascular or muscular conditions.
When Should You See an Audiologist?
It is important to schedule an evaluation if:
- Your tinnitus is persistent and affects your daily life.
- You experience hearing loss along with tinnitus.
- Your tinnitus occurs suddenly or worsens over time.
- You hear a rhythmic or pulsing sound (pulsatile tinnitus), which may indicate a vascular issue.
What to Expect During Your Visit
During your tinnitus evaluation, your audiologist will:
- Conduct a full hearing assessment to check for hearing loss.
- Perform tinnitus pitch and loudness matching to characterize your tinnitus.
- Evaluate your speech understanding in quiet and noisy environments.
- Discuss your symptoms and lifestyle to determine the best management plan.
If you are experiencing tinnitus symptoms, seeking professional help can improve your quality of life. Schedule an appointment today to explore effective management options.
