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Glossary

Tinnitus

By 18 March 2025June 2nd, 2025No Comments

Tinnitus: A Comprehensive Glossary

Tinnitus is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide, characterised by a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears that has no external source. While tinnitus is not a disease itself, it is often a symptom of an underlying issue such as hearing loss, ear infections, or exposure to loud noise. This glossary will provide an in-depth look at tinnitus, its causes, symptoms, treatments, and preventive measures.

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What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external noise is present. It can occur in one or both ears and may be intermittent or constant. The intensity of tinnitus varies from mild to severe, with some individuals experiencing debilitating symptoms that affect their daily lives.

Types of Tinnitus

  1. Subjective Tinnitus – The most common type, where only the affected person can hear the sound. It is often linked to hearing loss or damage to the auditory system.
  2. Objective Tinnitus – A rare type that can be heard by both the affected individual and a healthcare provider. It is usually caused by vascular conditions or muscular abnormalities near the ear.
  3. Pulsatile Tinnitus – A rhythmic sound that matches the person’s heartbeat, often associated with blood vessel disorders or increased blood flow.
  4. Somatic Tinnitus – Triggered or worsened by physical movements, such as turning the head or clenching the jaw, often linked to musculoskeletal issues.

Common Causes of Tinnitus

  • Hearing Loss – Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) and noise-induced hearing loss can damage the auditory nerves, leading to tinnitus.
  • Loud Noise Exposure – Regular exposure to loud sounds from concerts, construction sites, or headphones can cause temporary or permanent tinnitus.
  • Ear Infections and Blockages – Excess earwax, middle ear infections, or fluid buildup can contribute to tinnitus symptoms.
  • Medications – Certain drugs, including aspirin, antibiotics, and antidepressants, have ototoxic properties that may trigger tinnitus.
  • Head or Neck Injuries – Trauma to the head, neck, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can affect the auditory system and lead to tinnitus.
  • Underlying Health Conditions – High blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases can be associated with tinnitus development.

Symptoms of Tinnitus

  • Ringing, buzzing, humming, or clicking sounds in one or both ears
  • Fluctuations in the volume of perceived noise
  • Increased awareness of sounds in quiet environments
  • Difficulty concentrating or sleeping due to persistent noise

Diagnosing Tinnitus

Healthcare professionals diagnose tinnitus through:

  • Hearing Tests – Audiometry assessments to determine hearing loss levels
  • Imaging Tests – MRI or CT scans to detect structural abnormalities
  • Medical History – Reviewing past illnesses, medication use, and noise exposure
  • Physical Examination – Checking for earwax buildup or infections

Treatment Options for Tinnitus

Currently, there is no universal cure for tinnitus, but several treatments help manage symptoms:

  1. Hearing Aids – Amplifying external sounds can mask tinnitus, particularly for those with hearing loss.
  2. Sound Therapy – White noise machines, nature sounds, or ambient background noise help reduce tinnitus perception.
  3. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – Helps patients manage emotional distress caused by tinnitus.
  4. Medications – Some individuals find relief through antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs.
  5. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) – Combines sound therapy and counselling to desensitise the brain to tinnitus.
  6. Lifestyle Modifications – Reducing caffeine, alcohol, and salt intake may alleviate symptoms.

Preventing Tinnitus

  • Protect Your Hearing – Use earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones in loud environments.
  • Limit Loud Music Exposure – Keep headphone volume at a safe level.
  • Manage Stress – High stress levels can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms.
  • Stay Active and Healthy – Regular exercise improves blood circulation, which may help reduce tinnitus severity.
  • Monitor Medication Use – Avoid ototoxic drugs if possible.

When to See a Doctor

If tinnitus is persistent, worsens, or is accompanied by dizziness, hearing loss, or pain, consult an audiologist or ENT specialist for further evaluation.

Conclusion

Tinnitus is a complex condition with various causes and manifestations. While there is no definitive cure, a combination of treatments and preventive measures can significantly improve quality of life. Seeking professional advice and taking proactive steps to protect your hearing can help manage tinnitus effectively.

At NeuroAudiology, we specialise in assessing and managing auditory processing disorders, providing tailored interventions that empower individuals to overcome their challenges. With the right support, those with APD can improve their auditory skills and enjoy a more fulfilling life.

In a world rich with sounds and conversations, understanding and addressing auditory processing disorders is vital for effective communication and emotional well-being. Don’t hesitate—take the first step toward improved auditory health today!