What is tinnitus?

Tinnitus is commonly described as a ringing sound in the ears, though some people may experience other sounds such as buzzing or roaring. It refers to the perception of sound when no external sound is present in the environment. Tinnitus may occur occasionally for some individuals, while others experience a constant sensation. It is commonly associated with hearing impairment, with studies suggesting that 10 to 25% of adults experience tinnitus at some stage. Children can also experience tinnitus. Tinnitus itself is not a disease, but a symptom related to underlying hearing or ear conditions.

Prevention of tinnitus

Using ear protectors will protect your ear from constant exposure to loud sounds.

• When working in construction or factory settings
• In some specific performances of arts and music
• Many gyms play loud music for motivation, in some exercise classes.
• At concerts and movie theatres. Noise levels at these events can be too loud, which may harm hearing.

Consult the audiologists who will discuss the management of tinnitus.

What are the symptoms of Tinnitus?

Tinnitus symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. When there is no external sound, a person may hear sounds in one ear, both ears or in the head.

• The tinnitus may sound like ring, buzz, roar, whistle, hum, click, hiss, or squeal.
• The sound may be soft or loud and may be low or high-pitched.
• Tinnitus may come and go or be present all the time.
• Sometimes, head and neck movements may produce tinnitus symptoms or temporarily change the quality of the perceived sound.

What are the causes of tinnitus?

While the exact causes of tinnitus are not fully understood, it has been linked to the following:

• Noise exposure. Many people experience tinnitus after exposure to loud noise in a workplace setting, sporting event, or concert. Tinnitus is also the most common service-related problem. People exposed to loud noise at their workplace may develop tinnitus after some years of noise exposure.
• Hearing loss. Hearing loss, which can be caused by ageing exposure to loud noise, or a middle ear condition like Otosclerosis, is strongly associated with tinnitus.
• Medications. Tinnitus can be a side effect of taking certain medications, especially if they are taken at high doses.
• Earwax or an ear infection. Blockage of the ear canal by earwax or by fluid from an ear infection can trigger tinnitus.
• Head or neck injuries. A head/neck injury can damage ear structures, the nerve that carries sound signals to the brain, or areas of the brain that process sound, causing tinnitus.