The Science Behind Tinnitus

Tinnitus refers to a ringing or buzzing-like sound that individuals may hear in one or both ears. Tinnitus is linked to the auditory system and the neural networks of the brain. Damage or loss of auditory hair cells in the inner ear can lead the brain to generate a phantom sound.

What are the Symptoms of Tinnitus?

There are many symptoms of tinnitus like ringing in one or both of your ears. However, you may hear a buzzing, clicking, hissing or a whooshing sound. This sound will differ from each individual experiencing tinnitus. Other symptoms could include:

• Difficulty communicating
• Hearing loss
• A lack of focus or productivity
• Poor sleeping habits
• Pain in ear
• Dizziness

What Causes Tinnitus?

There are many different causes or triggers for tinnitus. Typically, it is associated with age-related hearing loss. Tinnitus can also be caused by sudden or prolonged exposure to loud noise, with many of those who spend time working in noisy environments later developing tinnitus. Inner or middle ear infections, or the build-up of wax in the ear, have also been attributed to the redevelopment of tinnitus. This is because the build-up of wax can block external sounds, meaning that internal sounds, such as the tinnitus itself, become instantly more noticeable and harder to ignore.

Certain health conditions, or the medications used in their treatment, can also lead to tinnitus. For example, some types of anti-inflammatory medication have been linked to the development of tinnitus. If you think you are experiencing tinnitus, talk with your hearing health professional. They will guide you through a hearing assessment and provide a proper treatment plan.

What are the Treatments for Tinnitus?

Some people only experience tinnitus temporarily, such as when they’ve been exposed to a sudden noise. However, it can also become chronic. Despite this, there are many solutions you can rely on to reduce its symptoms or the impact it has on your day-to-day life. For example, this includes the use of hearing aids with masking features, which can help to drown out internal noises by amplifying external sounds. White noise machines work to a similar effect by helping to draw your attention away from the ringing or buzzing.

If your tinnitus is caused by the build-up of wax in the inner ear, earwax removal could also play a crucial role in lessening the symptoms of your tinnitus. This is because it can help to soften the wax so that it no longer blocks external sounds. Your hearing health professional will be able to remove your earwax blockage if this is the cause of your tinnitus.

If you have noticed any of the symptoms of tinnitus or feel as though you may be at risk, reach out to a hearing health professional today. They will be able to address your symptoms and concerns, giving you greater peace of mind moving forward. If you do receive a diagnosis for tinnitus, they can also discuss the next steps with you or point you towards the most effective form of treatment. If you’d like to find out more, please do not hesitate to get in touch with your hearing health professional.