A Comprehensive Guide to Tinnitus

Tinnitus is one of the most common otologic issues with debilitating and agonizing physical effects. Although it is quite common, it remains relatively unknown, and most studies do not show conclusive evidence on its triggers, causes, and how to cure tinnitus. However, there are some common facts regarding tinnitus and how it manifests itself to various individuals. 

Tinnitus Sounds Vary

Tinnitus may sound like whooshing, ringing, hissing, buzzing or a pulsating noise that seems to be originating from inside the ear. The sound may vary in volume, and you are the only one who can hear it. It may also be constant or come and go from time to time. 

There are three main types of tinnitus. Pulsatile tinnitus appears to come in pulses, along with the rhythm of your heartbeat. Tonal tinnitus comes in sounds that stay in a certain set of frequencies and are nearly continuous. Musical tinnitus, on the other hand, creates the perception of songs or singing. 

Tinnitus Triggers

In some situations, certain drugs or food can bring tinnitus or exacerbate its symptoms. These items include caffeine, aspirin, salt, and alcohol. Smoking is another tinnitus trigger since it is a stimulant that increases blood flow. 

Tinnitus Can Develop for No Reason at All

As scary and unfortunate as it may sound, most people develop tinnitus for no reason at all. Tinnitus has the potential to develop even though you are a healthy individual with no hearing loss. Tinnitus can affect anyone, irrespective of their age, gender, background, and work environment. 

Tinnitus Is Not a Disease

Tinnitus isn't a disease. Rather, it is a symptom of another problem that can arise from many factors such as the side effects of medication, hearing loss, high blood pressure, neck, and head trauma, middle ear blockages and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Since tinnitus is only an indicator of an underlying issue, you must see your primary health care provider or an audiologist to determine its cause and begin treatment as soon as possible. 

Tinnitus and Noise

A significant percentage of all the people living with tinnitus are suspected of developing the condition due to noise-induced hearing loss. It usually arises when you are exposed to loud noises for a long time. However, it can also occur as the result of a single loud noise like an explosion or gunshot. Noise-induced hearing loss is also typical to people who work in construction sites or clubs. 

Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Tinnitus

Your audiologist will conduct several hearing exams to determine whether or not you have tinnitus. These include an evaluation of how well you perceive frequencies and volumes, a speech recognition test, and the middle ear function. 

Although there is no cure for tinnitus, there are several ways to reduce its symptoms. These include lifestyle changes, medication, sound generators, and relaxation techniques. Hearing aids can also assist in reducing tinnitus noise for many people. This increases the sound outside your ears to blend with that of the tinnitus, making it less apparent. If you do not have hearing loss, you can get hearing aids specially designed to deal with the tinnitus. 

Tinnitus is common to many people across the globe. If you suspect that you may have it, visit an audiologist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.