Tinnitus
Tinnitus most frequently described as ringing in one or both ears, is the sensation of hearing ringing, buzzing, hissing, roaring, clicking, humming, chirping, whistling, or other phantom noises even though no external sound is present. The noise can be intermittent or continuous, and can vary in loudness.
Causes:
• Blockage of ear canal by wax or ear infection
• Head or neck trauma
• Noise induced hearing loss due to damage of delicate hair cells present in cochlea
• Medications as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and certain antibiotics, cancer drugs, diuretics, antimalarial drugs and antidepressants.
• Otosclerosis
• Muscle spasm in inner ears caused by neurologic diseases
• Acoustic Schwannoma
• Dysfunction of Eustachian tube
Risk factors:
• Aging
• Male sex
• Alcohol and tobacco use
• Loud noise
• Cardiovascular disease and hypertension
• Obesity
• Ménière’s disease
• Anaemia, allergies, autoimmune disease, and diabetes
Diagnosis:
Usually tinnitus is diagnosed by symptoms of patients alone.
Other tests that can be carried out to identify the cause are-
• Audiological examination
• Movements - By moving eyes, clenching jaw, or moving neck, arms and legs; If there occurs worsening of tinnitus, it may help in identify an underlying disorder that needs treatment.
• CT & MRI scans
• Haematological tests
Treatment:
• After diagnosing the cause & risk factors- Avoidance of triggering agents or removal of cause.
• Sound maskers
• Hearing aids
• Relaxation exercises to reduce stress
• Certain hormones, topical anaesthetics and anti-anxiety medications
• Cochlear implants
• Counselling- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) with a psychologist