Ringing in the ears, also called tinnitus, is a common condition that affects millions of adults in the United States alone. The symptoms of tinnitus can vary from case to case. For example, some people only experience tinnitus in one ear, while others hear a ringing sound in both ears. The sound itself also varies and can sound like a ringing, hissing, roaring or buzzing. There are several ways to treat tinnitus, including medication, counseling and much more.
Read on to learn more about tinnitus and some of its most common causes:
- Hearing loss: One of the main causes of tinnitus is hearing loss, which often occurs with old age. Hearing loss, and, thus, tinnitus, are thought to occur from nerve damage to the inner ear caused by noise exposure.
- Medications: Sometimes switching your medication is all it takes to cure your tinnitus. Drugs commonly known for causing tinnitus include diuretics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, certain cancer drugs and more. Before switching medications, be sure to consult your doctor.
- Loud noises: Constant exposure to loud sounds can cause ringing in the ears to develop over time. This is a major risk for those who work around loud equipment like chainsaws, jackhammers and other heavy equipment. Those who work with firearms, including police officers and members of the military, are also at major risk for hearing loss. That’s why many companies encourage their workers to wear earmuffs.
- Injuries to the head: Past injuries to the head can sometimes cause a ringing in the ears. These injuries can include whiplash or concussions. Pretty much any head injury that could lead to inner ear damage can cause tinnitus. If you’re an athlete or work on a construction site, be sure to wear the proper head protection in order to avoid major injury.
- Other common causes: There are many potential causes for tinnitus. Other common causes include ear disorders, heart problems, high blood pressure and many more.
Tinnitus treatment options
If you suspect that you’re suffering from tinnitus, the first thing to do is have a hearing evaluation performed. During this evaluation, a doctor will perform a hearing test to see if you’re suffering from tinnitus. If you are suffering from tinnitus, your doctor will determine the best treatment based on the severity of your condition. It’s important to note that there’s no actual cure for tinnitus, but there are ways to control the symptoms.
For some people, the best treatment for tinnitus is medication. While there aren’t any drugs to cure tinnitus, a doctor can prescribe you something to help with the psychological effects of dealing with this condition. Hearing aids can also be a helpful treatment if your condition was caused by hearing loss. Other possible treatments include earwax removal, therapy, white noise machines and much more.
If you’re worried about exposure to any of the common causes of tinnitus, schedule an appointment with the Vancouver Hearing Aid Center today. Our professional staff members will do their best to diagnose your condition and offer the best treatment options.