Ear Conditions
Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external noise is present — often described as ringing, buzzing, whistling, swooshing or clicking. It affects more than 50 million American adults and can be temporary or ongoing.
Understanding Tinnitus
What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no actual external noise is present. It is commonly called "ringing in the ears," but people also describe buzzing, whistling, swooshing and clicking. In rare cases, patients report hearing music. Tinnitus can be acute (temporary) or chronic (ongoing).
Tinnitus is not a disease itself — it is a symptom of some other underlying health condition. In most cases it is a sensorineural reaction in the brain to damage in the auditory system. While tinnitus is often associated with hearing loss, roughly 200 different health disorders can produce tinnitus as a symptom.
Common Contributing Causes
- Hearing loss
- Earwax or middle ear fluid
- Head and neck injuries
- TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders
- Sinus pressure
- Barometric trauma
- Ototoxic drugs
- Psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety and stress
- Vestibular disorders, including Meniere's disease
- Tumors (very rare)
Because the causes vary widely, an evaluation helps determine what may be contributing in your case.
Triggers
Things That Can Make Tinnitus Worse
Many patients notice their tinnitus is more bothersome at certain times. Being aware of these factors may help.
Loud Noise
Exposure to loud sound may make tinnitus more noticeable. Hearing protection in noisy settings is generally recommended.
Dietary Factors
Caffeine, excess salt, nicotine and alcohol are commonly reported to make tinnitus more noticeable for some people.
Medications
Many medications list tinnitus as a possible side effect, especially aspirin, quinine and ototoxic medications. Never stop a prescribed medication without speaking to the prescribing physician.
Stress and Fatigue
Stress and being overtired can aggravate tinnitus, which is why relaxation strategies are often part of coping.
Relief Options
Tinnitus Relief
There is no "cure" for tinnitus, but there are many ways to learn to cope with it and help reduce how noticeable it feels.
Adding Sound to Your Environment
Many people find relief by masking tinnitus with background sound. This can be as simple as a fan running, a TV or radio playing, or nature sounds. Ocean sounds have been found to be very helpful for many patients.
Hearing Aids
If you have hearing loss, many patients receive relief from simply wearing hearing aids, sometimes noticing a difference when first trying on a device. Newer hearing aid technology also offers fully integrated tinnitus features.
Learn about Hearing Physicians CenterApps and Relaxation
Several free phone apps are available — search "tinnitus relief." Many apps also include relaxation exercises such as breathing and muscle relaxation, which may help since stress can aggravate tinnitus. Sleep Better and Calm are other options patients use.
Working With an Audiologist
It is important to work closely with an audiologist — most hold doctorate degrees and have training to help with tinnitus. Be aware that hearing instrument specialists advertising tinnitus treatment are working outside their scope of practice.
If Sound Masking Is Not Enough
For patients who have tried apps or masking sounds without success and are not candidates for hearing aids, we refer to Dr. Maura Chippendale at Chippendale Audiology in Cape Coral for counseling and other treatment options. You can call them at 239-772-0940.
Helpful Links
Additional Resources
These third-party resources are provided for general information. ENTCare SWFL does not control their content.
- Sound Oasis(opens in a new tab)Sound machine options for tinnitus and sleep.
- American Tinnitus Association(opens in a new tab)Support groups and general tinnitus information.
- Chippendale Audiology(opens in a new tab)Dr. Maura Chippendale, Cape Coral — counseling and additional treatment options. Phone: 239-772-0940.
Related Information
Noticing Ringing or Noise in Your Ears?
Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Price Sonkarley to discuss your symptoms and the options that may be appropriate for you.