Tinnitus

Tinnitus is commonly known as a ringing noise in the ears, either in one ear (unilateral tinnitus) or both ears (bilateral tinnitus). The noise is created within the head, and the exact cause is still uncertain. Tinnitus can occur suddenly or develop gradually, and it affects people of all ages. While short-term tinnitus can last from a few hours to two weeks, long-term or persistent tinnitus is often associated with hearing loss and other conditions.

The 3 Types of Tinnitus

  • Subjective tinnitus: Only the sufferer can hear the ringing noise.
  • Pulsatile tinnitus: Described as a heartbeat-like sound related to the carotid artery or jugular veins in the neck.
  • Objective tinnitus: A sound, such as clicking, can be heard by someone standing close to the sufferer.

Tinnitus Symptoms

Tinnitus is often described as a ringing noise, but it can also sound like crickets, clicking, ocean waves, buzzing, hissing, static, dial tones, pulsing, roaring, humming, screeching, sirens, whistling, and even music or hymns. It can be constant or intermittent and may significantly affect a person’s life, especially when it disrupts sleep.

Sleep Deprivation

Many people with chronic tinnitus find it difficult to fall asleep because the noise is more noticeable at night. Sleep deprivation can result in fatigue, poor memory, and irritability. Some individuals learn to zone out the noise over time, but it can still impact their quality of life.

Possible Causes and Contributing Factors of Tinnitus

  • Age: Age-related hearing loss is often associated with tinnitus.
  • Cholesteatoma: A benign skin cell growth in the middle ear causing infections and hearing loss.
  • Perforated/Ruptured Eardrum: A hole in the eardrum caused by various factors, leading to hearing loss and possible tinnitus.
  • Ear Infection: Often caused by colds or throat infections, leading to pain, muffled hearing, and a sense of fullness.
  • Ear Wax: A build-up of wax in the ear canal can block sound waves and increase tinnitus. Proper removal can alleviate symptoms.
  • Noise Exposure: Loud noises, such as those from concerts or machinery, can cause temporary or permanent tinnitus depending on exposure levels.

How Loud is Too Loud?

Sounds over 85 dB can lead to hearing damage, and prolonged exposure increases the risk of tinnitus. For reference, a typical conversation is around 60-70 dB, while a rock concert can reach 120 dB.

Treatment of Tinnitus

While there is no cure for tinnitus, treatments can help reduce symptoms, including:

  • Earwax Removal: Clearing blocked earwax can alleviate tinnitus caused by wax build-up.
  • Hearing Aids: These can improve symptoms if tinnitus is linked to hearing loss.
  • White Noise Machines: These devices generate soothing sounds, helping to mask tinnitus.
  • Counselling: Helps people adjust their perception of tinnitus to make it less intrusive.
  • Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT): Combines sound masking and counselling.
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Teaches strategies to help individuals cope with tinnitus and its effects on their life.

FAQs

This is called pulsatile tinnitus, which is often related to blood flow in the carotid artery or jugular veins in the neck. It can sound like a heartbeat or pulse.

While there is no scientific evidence linking stress to worsening tinnitus, stress can contribute to increased perception of tinnitus symptoms. For support, contact Tinnitus UK at tinnitus.org.uk or call 0800 018 0527.

Yes, many people adjust to their tinnitus over time, learning to tune it out unless they actively focus on it.

There is no known cure for tinnitus, but treatments such as hearing aids, white noise machines, and therapy can help manage symptoms.