Understanding Tinnitus: Causes, Symptoms & When to Seek Help

Tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing in the ears, is not a disease, but can be a symptom of an underlying problem. It can be a short-lived, occasional irritant, or it can cause severe distress and last a long time.

Causes

• Damage from loud sounds or music can cause tinnitus. Other common causes include damage to the eardrum; age-related hearing loss; earwax buildup; hardening of the bones of the inner ear; atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries and nerve damage to the face or head.

Testing

• The cause of tinnitus can be determined through a physical exam by a doctor; she will check to see if there is earwax buildup or a punctured eardrum. Hearing tests are also used to find the source of tinnitus.

Treatment

• Treatment ranges from removal of earwax to medication for severe tinnitus. White noise machines and hearing aides can mask the effects of tinnitus.

Lifestyle

• Lifestyle changes may relieve the effects of tinnitus. Avoid alcohol, loud noises, stress and nicotine. Play background noise, such as a running fan or soft music.

Prevention/Solution

• Always wear ear protection when you are exposed to loud noises, such as concerts or target practice, and maintain good cholesterol levels to avoid hardening of the arteries.