Quick Solutions for Your Hearing Issues
Whether you're concerned about a family member's hearing loss or are suffering from chronic ringing in the ears, our audiologist, audiology technicians and ENT specialists are here to help you find answers.
What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is a condition associated with a chronic ringing or buzzing in the ears. The sounds may range from a high-pitched tone to pulsing noises or whistling. Tinnitus can be a result of hearing loss and you should see your doctor if you're experiencing these symptoms.
Causes of Tinnitus
- Blockage in middle ear (foreign object, excessive wax, head congestion)
- Damage to ear drum (loud music, etc.)
- Age-related hearing loss
- Sinus Pressure
- Barometric Trauma
- Ototoxic drugs
- Traumatic brain injury
- Head and neck trauma
- Temporomandibular (Jaw) Joint Disorder
- Benign tumors on the nerve of the hearing
- Inner Ear Infections
Possible Treatment & Management Options
- Removing potential cause (blockage, etc.)
- Antibiotics or treatment of other congestion
- Sound therapy
- Steroids
- Hearing aids
- Surgery
Testing for Tinnitus
The causes of tinnitus can vary greatly, which is why it's important to meet with a doctor to develop a customized diagnosis and testing plan. Your specialist will conduct a hearing test, and depending on the results you may require certain imaging studies to help determine the cause of the tinnitus. Sometimes, there is no specific cause for the tinnitus. In certain cases, MRIs and internal imaging may be required to help doctors get a sense of the possible issues at hand.
Hearing Loss & Tinnitus FAQs
If you are under 45, you should have your hearing tested every 5 years. If you're over 45, the recommended frequency is every 2-3 years.
Tinnitus can also present as a clicking, humming, swishing, or heartbeat-like noise. Sounds caused by buildup or foreign objects can also take on a number of different sounds.
Sometimes tinnitus can be caused by stress, caffeine, depression or anxiety. In some cases referrals maybe be necessary for depression or anxiety.
Hearing aids help balance and amplify sound to help individuals with hearing loss. They come in both digital and analog varieties, the first of which adjusts volume automatically without needing to be manually turned up.
Yes, which is why you should wear ear plugs to concerts and other loud events. Also, if you work around heavy machinery or other loud sounds, you should always wear appropriate hearing protection.
Typically, children have their hearing tested through the school system or at routine doctor’s appointments. For more information on particular pediatric concerns, see our Pediatric ENT page.
Still Have Questions?
As your allies in wellness, our team strives to address all of your questions and concerns. Give us a call and we'll work with you to get the best answers.