Understanding Ringing in the Ears: A Beginners Guide

If you’ve ever noticed a persistent ringing in your ears, you might be experiencing a symptom of an underlying condition known as tinnitus. When you last had your hearing evaluated by an audiologist, they likely assessed both your hearing health and the structure of your ears.

Tinnitus occurs for many different reasons and it’s a very common experience. Currently, over 50-million Americans encounter some degree of ringing or buzzing in their ears, with about 20 million experiencing it persistently. Fortunately, for most, tinnitus is temporary and tends to fade relatively quickly, which is comforting given its nature. Before you speak to an audiologist, here are some things to know about tinnitus that will help you to manage it.

What is Ringing in the Ears?

Ringing in the ears, known as tinnitus, is a sensation of hearing sound when no external sound is present. It often manifests as buzzing, ringing, hissing or roaring noises in one or both ears. This sensation can vary in intensity and may be constant or intermittent. Tinnitus isn’t a condition itself but rather a symptom of an underlying issue, such as age-related hearing loss, ear injury, or exposure to loud noise. While it can be bothersome and impact daily life, various treatments and coping strategies are available to manage tinnitus and alleviate its effects.

Two Common Causes are Hearing Loss and Aging

Two prevalent causes linked to tinnitus are hearing loss and aging. Firstly, age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, often occurs as individuals grow older due to the natural wear and tear on the delicate structures of the inner ear. As these structures decline over time, the brain may compensate by generating phantom sounds, resulting in tinnitus. Secondly, exposure to loud noise, either over an extended period or in a single traumatic event, can contribute to both hearing loss and tinnitus. Prolonged exposure damages the sensitive hair cells in the inner ear, disrupting the auditory signals and potentially triggering the perception of persistent noise.

It Can Be Treated

Treating tinnitus involves a multifaceted approach aimed at managing the symptoms and addressing underlying causes. One common strategy is sound therapy, which uses external noises to mask or distract from the internal sounds of tinnitus. Hearing aids can be beneficial with a tinnitus masking feature, especially for individuals with tinnitus linked to age-related hearing loss, by amplifying external sounds and improving overall hearing. Additionally, lifestyle modifications, like minimizing exposure to loud noises and managing stress, can contribute to a comprehensive treatment plan for individuals dealing with tinnitus.

You Can Lower Your Risk

Using ear protection in loud environments and keeping music at moderate volumes can safeguard against damage to the delicate structures of the inner ear. Regular hearing check-ups with an audiologist can help identify and address any potential issues early on. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can contribute to overall well-being and may positively impact hearing health.

With the right lifestyle modifications and hearing help from an audiologist, you can start managing your tinnitus and finding relief from the symptoms you are experiencing.