Commonly described as a hissing, roaring, ringing or whooshing sound in the ears—Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no actual noise is present.
As many as 50 to 60 million people in the United States suffer from this condition; and the sound may seem to come from one ear or both, from inside the head, or from a distance. It may be constant or intermittent, steady, or pulsating.
Tinnitus is especially common in people over age 55 and strongly associated with hearing loss. Unfortunately, in some cases it may become so severe that sufferers find it difficult to hear, concentrate, or even sleep.
Causes of Tinnitus
It can be difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of tinnitus, as it is most likely caused by many related factors. Tinnitus usually, but not always, has to do with an abnormality of the auditory system.
In most cases, tinnitus is a reaction in the brain to damage in the ear and auditory system. Other causes include obstructions in the middle ear, head and neck trauma, sinus pressure and barometric trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), ototoxic drugs, and various medical conditions.
Treating Tinnitus
While there is no cure for tinnitus, there are treatments available to help mitigate the symptoms. Often, the best treatment plan includes a combination of behavioral counseling and sound therapy. Counseling helps patients manage the psychological effects that can accompany tinnitus, and sound therapy can help decrease patients’ sensitivity to the noise they hear.
Additionally, hearing aids can prove helpful for those who experience hearing loss and tinnitus.
Specialized Treatment Plan
Our Doctors of Audiology are skillfully trained in the latest tinnitus relief therapies that can be personalized for your tinnitus needs. We will work to identify and address any underlying causes of tinnitus and establish a specialized treatment plan to improve your symptoms. Contact us to book an appointment today.
