Tinnitus is the sensation of sound, usually a ringing or buzzing that does not come from an external source.The sounds can be very mild and only noticeable in a quiet room or quite extreme to the point where the sufferer hears nothing else. The sounds can come and go or be present all the time.
The intensity of the loudness is affected by several factors including stress, diet and noise exposure.
Treatment
Tinnitus can often be managed. Treatment involves identifying and dealing with the underlying condition that may be associated with your symptoms.
An appointment should be made with a hearing health care professional to investigate and discuss the extent of the problem, possible causes, and the best treatment options.You may be referred to an ENT.
Causes
Disorders of the outer ear including excessive earwax, a foreign body, or perforated ear drum.Often removal of the problem will relieve the tinnitus.
Disorders of the middle ear such as an ear infection
Disorders of the inner ear including damage related to noise exposure and age-related hearing loss
Trauma to the head or neck
Certain medications
Various other causes including low blood pressure and diabetes
Tinnitus is experienced by 10-15% of the population.
Many people with normal hearing experience tinnitus.
Tinnitus does not cause hearing loss, sufferers can experience decreased hearing as well as a feeling of pressure in the ears, unsteadiness, and dizziness.
