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BUZZ, CLICK, HISS, RING, ROAR! Sound Familiar?
There’s a name for those strange sounds you’ve been hearing: tinnitus. Whether it’s a dull roar, faint hiss, unending ringing or periodic clicks or swooshes, tinnitus is real.
WHAT’S ALL THAT NOISE?
Tinnitus itself isn’t a disease, but a symptom of something affecting the auditory system. Tinnitus is exceedingly common — about 10% of American adults have experienced tinnitus lasting at least five minutes within the last year, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD). It’s common to experience tinnitus for short periods of time, such as after a loud concert, or it can also be a constant problem.
“Those most at risk of developing tinnitus are people who work in a noisy environment, aging adults, smokers and those with conditions affecting blood flw,” said Dr. Bailey LeConte, an otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat specialist) with Houston Methodist ENT Specialists at Sugar Land. “The cause of tinnitus can vary from earwax buildup to noise-induced hearing loss, certain medications, cardiovascular problems or even brain tumors.”
Tinnitus can be annoying, but it’s rarely an indication of a serious condition. But you should see a doctor if it becomes a chronic problem, occurs suddenly without cause, or you’re experiencing hearing loss or dizziness.
During an exam, your doctor will determine if you have subjective tinnitus, which is sound only you can hear, or objective tinnitus, which is sound your doctor can also hear. “Objective tinnitus is rare,” noted LeConte. “It’s usually caused by a blood vessel problem, muscle contractions or a middle ear bone condition.”
Finding A Fix
No cure currently exists for tinnitus, but you may be able to reduce symptoms by treating the underlying cause.
“We offer a range of treatments depending on the underlying problem,” LeConte explained. “Sometimes simply removing impacted earwax can alleviate discomfort. Others may need a change in their current medications.”
If treating the underlying cause doesn’t help, you may fid relief through hearing aids, white noise machines or wearable masking devices. •
