Do you ever hear a ringing noise in your ears? This is actually pretty common, and it’s known as tinnitus. A study from 2018 showed that as much as 10-15% of the adult population in developed countries experience tinnitus. You can read more about it here. Tinnitus is not a single condition. Rather, it’s an umbrella term for any kind of persistent ringing, buzzing, or other noises heard inside your ears without any external source. Unfortunately, identifying the exact cause of it can be tricky. That’s why today, let’s take a closer look at the possible reasons someone might experience tinnitus.
Exposure to Loud Noise
A common cause of tinnitus is exposure to loud noises, especially for those who work in noisy environments or regularly attend live concerts. According to the American Tinnitus Association, spending too much time around noise above 85 decibels can damage the tiny hairs inside your inner ear, impacting their ability to transmit signals properly. This might lead to phantom sounds, such as ringing or buzzing. The sensation can also range up to a high-pitched whistle.
Head Injuries or Ear Infections
Head injuries and ear infections are also known to be potential triggers for tinnitus. For example, one 2018 study found that a significant percentage of those who had suffered from head trauma reported experiencing tinnitus afterward. Similarly, ear infections can cause inflammation in the inner ear and damage the tiny hairs transmitting signals. Without a certain transmission of signals, it can lead to hearing phantom noises.
Meniere’s Disease
Another possible cause of tinnitus is Meniere’s disease, an inner ear disorder that occurs when there’s an abnormal amount of fluid in the inner ear. This condition can lead to hearing loss, tinnitus, vertigo (a spinning sensation), and other symptoms. According to the American Hearing Research Foundation, Meniere’s disease is difficult to diagnose. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to seek medical advice if you experience any symptoms associated with this condition.
Certain Medications
Another common cause of tinnitus is certain medications, especially those used to treat high blood pressure or depression. Some antibiotics and cancer treatments have also been known to cause phantom noises. Talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing tinnitus after starting a new medication. They can help you find alternatives that don’t come with the same side effects. They can also aid in adjusting the dosage of your current medication to reduce the ringing sensation.
Age-Related Hearing Loss
Unfortunately, as we age, our hearing naturally starts to decline, which might be a factor in tinnitus for older individuals. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) recommends regular hearing checks for anyone over 50. If you’re in this age group and are experiencing tinnitus, it might be a sign of hearing loss that requires medical attention. In some cases, hearing aids can even help reduce the ringing sensation.
So what’s the bottom line? Tinnitus isn’t something you should ignore. If it persists or causes discomfort, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor. They can help identify any underlying causes and come up with a plan to address them accordingly. With proper care and management, your tinnitus can become much more manageable. Eventually, you can get back to enjoying your life without too much ringing in your ears.…