Tinnitus – Symptoms and Causes
What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the perception of noise or ringing in the ears when no external sound is present. This sound isn’t audible to others, making it a personal experience.
About 15–20% of people deal with tinnitus, with higher rates among older adults.
Several underlying conditions can trigger tinnitus:
- Age-related hearing loss
- Ear injuries
- Circulatory system problems
Most people find relief when the root cause is addressed. Treatment options aim to address the underlying condition or reduce the noise’s impact on daily life.
Symptoms
Tinnitus creates a perception of sound when no external sound exists. The phantom noise is commonly described as a ringing sensation, but can manifest in various ways.
People might experience:
- Buzzing
- Roaring
- Clicking
- Hissing
- Humming
The most common form is subjective tinnitus, which only the affected person can hear. These sounds may range from low-pitched roars to high-pitched squeals and can affect one or both ears.
The volume varies, sometimes becoming loud enough to interfere with concentration or the ability to hear other sounds. Some people experience constant tinnitus, while others notice it comes and goes.
A less common type called pulsatile tinnitus creates rhythmic sounds that often sync with heartbeats. Unlike subjective tinnitus, doctors can sometimes detect pulsatile tinnitus during an examination, making it an objective form of the condition.
When to Get Medical Help
Not everyone finds tinnitus disruptive, but those who do should consult a healthcare provider. Schedule an appointment if you notice ringing in your ears that persists for more than a week after a respiratory infection, like a cold.
Seek prompt medical attention if:
- Your tinnitus comes with hearing loss or dizziness
- You’re experiencing anxiety or depression because of the sounds
About 20% of people experience tinnitus. Research shows that approximately 90% of those with tinnitus also have some degree of hearing loss. This hearing loss might stem from:
- Age-related changes
- One-time exposure to extremely loud noise
- Long-term exposure to loud sounds
The delicate hair cells in the inner ear often play a role in tinnitus development. These tiny structures can become damaged through noise exposure, potentially contributing to both hearing loss and tinnitus symptoms.
While no scientifically proven cure exists, several treatment options can help manage tinnitus:
| Treatment Option | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Hearing aids | Address underlying hearing loss |
| Sound generators | Provide alternative sounds to focus on |
| Background noise | Using fans or other consistent sounds |
| Tinnitus retraining therapy | Specialized approach to reduce tinnitus awareness |
| Ear-level masking devices | Deliver distracting sounds throughout the day |
If tinnitus disrupts your life, start by visiting your healthcare provider for a proper hearing evaluation.
What Causes Ringing in the Ears?
Common Triggers of Ear Ringing
Ear ringing, known medically as tinnitus, often stems from several common health issues:
Hearing Damage
When the tiny hair cells in your inner ear get damaged, they can send random signals to your brain that you hear as ringing or buzzing. This damage happens naturally as you age or after exposure to loud noises over time.
Ear Blockages
Sometimes your ear canals get blocked with:
- Earwax buildup
- Fluid from infections
- Dirt or foreign objects
These blockages change the pressure in your ear, which can trigger ringing sounds.
Head and Neck Trauma
Injuries to your head or neck might harm your inner ear, hearing nerves, or the parts of your brain that process sound. These injuries typically cause ringing in just one ear.
Medication Side Effects
Some medicines can cause or worsen ear ringing. Increased doses often amplify the sounds significantly, and the ringing usually stops when you stop taking the medicine.
Medications that might cause ringing in the ears include:
- Pain relievers (like ibuprofen)
- Some antibiotics
- Cancer treatments
- Water pills
- Antimalarial drugs
- Some antidepressants
Less Common Causes of Ear Ringing
Several other health issues can lead to tinnitus:
Inner Ear Disorders
- Meniere’s Disease: An early sign might be ringing sounds, caused by abnormal fluid pressure in the inner ear
- Muscle Spasms: The tiny muscles in your inner ear can tense up, causing ringing and hearing problems
- Ear Bone Changes: When the bones in your middle ear stiffen (otosclerosis), it can affect your hearing and cause ringing
Structural Problems
- Eustachian Tube Problems: When this tube remains open instead of opening and closing correctly, your ear may feel full and ring.
- Jaw Joint Problems: Issues with the joint where your jaw meets your skull (TMJ) can trigger ringing.
- Tumors: Noncancerous growths like acoustic neuromas or other head and neck tumors can cause ringing sounds.
Blood Vessel Conditions
Problems with blood vessels can make blood flow more forcefully through your veins and arteries, causing a sound you can hear:
- Hardened arteries
- High blood pressure
- Twisted or abnormally formed blood vessels
Other Health Conditions
Several ongoing health problems link to ear ringing:
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disorders
- Migraine headaches
- Low red blood cell counts (anemia)
- Autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
In many cases, doctors never find the exact cause of a person’s ear ringing.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase your chance of developing tinnitus:
Exposure to Loud Sounds: Working around heavy machinery, using power tools, firing guns, or listening to loud music through headphones can damage hearing and lead to tinnitus.
Older Age: The natural aging process reduces nerve fibers in the ears, often causing hearing issues that may include tinnitus.
Gender: Men tend to experience tinnitus more frequently than women.
Lifestyle Choices: Smoking tobacco increases tinnitus risk. Regular alcohol consumption is also linked to higher chances of developing this condition.
Health Conditions: Several medical factors raise tinnitus risk, including:
- Obesity
- Heart and blood vessel problems
- High blood pressure
- Arthritis
- Previous head injuries
Health Impact
Tinnitus can affect daily life in many ways. People with this condition may feel tired and stressed. Sleep often becomes hard, making it tough to rest well.
Some find it hard to focus or remember things. Feelings of sadness, worry, and being easily upset are common. Headaches may occur more frequently. Work and family relationships can suffer as a result.
Prevention
Protecting yourself against tinnitus is possible in several ways, though some cases cannot be avoided. Taking proactive steps can reduce your risk of developing this condition.
Use proper hearing protection when exposed to loud noises. Prolonged exposure to loud sounds damages ear nerves, leading to hearing loss and tinnitus.
Always wear quality ear protection when using noisy equipment like chainsaws or machinery, or if you are a musician.
Maintain moderate volume levels when listening to music. Set volume limits on your devices to protect your ears.
Tips for protecting your hearing:
- Wear earplugs at concerts and loud events
- Take listening breaks when using headphones
- Follow the 60/60 rule, with no more than 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes
Maintain good cardiovascular health through regular exercise and proper nutrition. This helps prevent tinnitus related to blood vessel problems and obesity.
Reduce consumption of alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine. These substances can affect blood flow and may worsen tinnitus symptoms when used excessively.
