Tinnitus is the perception of noise or ringing in the ears when no external sound is present. It is a common condition that affects many people, and the noise can be perceived in one or both ears or in the head.

Here are some key points about tinnitus:

Types of Sounds: The sounds heard by individuals with tinnitus can vary widely, including ringing, buzzing, hissing, clicking, whooshing;

Causes: Tinnitus can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Hearing Loss: Often associated with hearing loss or exposure to loud noises.
  • Ear Infections or Blockages: Earwax buildup, ear infections, or ear canal obstructions can cause tinnitus.
  • Medications: Certain medications can cause or worsen tinnitus.
  • Health Conditions: Conditions such as Meniere’s disease, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders, neck disorders, diuretics (furosemide) and congenital deafness;

Types:

  • Subjective Tinnitus: The most common type, where only the person affected can hear the noise.
  • Objective Tinnitus: A rarer type where the noise can be heard by a doctor during an examination, often caused by vascular issues or muscle contractions.

Impact on Life: Tinnitus can range from a mild annoyance to a debilitating condition, affecting concentration, sleep, and overall quality of life.

Treatment and Management: While there is no cure for tinnitus, various treatments and strategies can help manage the symptoms:

  • Hearing Aids: For those with hearing loss, hearing aids can amplify external sounds to mask the tinnitus.
  • Sound Therapy: Using external noise to distract from tinnitus sounds.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): To help cope with the emotional aspects of tinnitus.
  • Relaxation: Stress can aggravate tinnitus and muscular tension can make the tinnitus perception louder.

Medications: Some medications may help reduce the severity of symptoms, though they are not always effective for everyone.

At DHS, we believe that a comprehensive hearing assessment is the initial step in addressing tinnitus. Our services include guidance on devices and effective management strategies to mitigate its impact. Additionally, education plays a crucial role in understanding and managing the underlying factors contributing to your tinnitus.