50+ Lifestyles

Ask the Audiologist

Understanding Tinnitus: What It Is and What Are Possible Causes?

By Shelby Garrison, Au.D.
Audiology Consultants, P.C.

Tinnitus is a condition characterized by the perception of sound in the ears or head with the absence of an external source of sound. Often described as a ringing, buzzing, hissing, or whistling, tinnitus can be intermittent or constant, and it can vary in intensity from mild to debilitating. It is not a disease in itself but rather a symptom of an underlying condition. While tinnitus is quite common, about 15-20% of people worldwide, it can be distressing and significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Because of its complex nature, tinnitus can be challenging to diagnose and manage, with no one-size-fits-all treatment. This article will explore what tinnitus is, how to manage it, and the potential role of hearing aids in providing relief.

Some common causes of tinnitus include:

1.  Exposure to Loud Noise: Prolonged exposure to loud sounds—whether from music, machinery, or firearms—can damage the delicate outer hair cells in the inner ear, leading to hearing loss and tinnitus.

2. Age-Related Hearing Loss: As people age, the ability of the inner ear to process sound diminishes, we call this type of loss presbycusis, and it is often accompanied
by tinnitus.

3. Ear Infections or Blockages: Ear infections, earwax buildup, or even sinus infections can cause temporary tinnitus.

4. Ototoxic Medications: Some medications, including certain antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and chemotherapy agents, can have a toxic effect on the ears and result in tinnitus.

5. Head or Neck Injuries: Trauma to the head or neck can disrupt the auditory pathways and lead to tinnitus.

6. Medical Conditions: Conditions like hypertension, diabetes, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and thyroid problems have also been linked to tinnitus.

7. Stress: Stress can worsen tinnitus by increasing the perception of the internal sounds, heightening awareness, and contributing to muscle tension, particularly in the neck and jaw. The body’s “fight-or-flight” response during stress amplifies tinnitus symptoms, while tinnitus itself can increase anxiety and emotional distress, creating a vicious cycle. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, therapy, and lifestyle changes can help reduce both stress and tinnitus, improving overall well-being.

8. Dehydration: Dehydration can exacerbate tinnitus by reducing blood flow and oxygen supply to the inner ear, which may heighten the perception of ringing or buzzing sounds. When the body is dehydrated, it can also lead to an imbalance in electrolytes, potentially affecting the auditory system and worsening tinnitus symptoms. Staying well-hydrated can help maintain proper ear function and reduce the intensity of tinnitus.

9. Sodium intake: High sodium intake can worsen tinnitus by increasing blood pressure and potentially affecting the inner ear’s fluid balance, which may amplify the perception of tinnitus sounds. Elevated sodium levels can also contribute to fluid retention, which may put additional pressure on the auditory system. Reducing sodium intake can help manage both blood pressure and tinnitus symptoms.

10. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: Dysfunction in the jaw joint can affect the muscles and nerves near the ears, leading to tinnitus.

Conclusion

Tinnitus can be a challenging condition, but with the right approach, it is possible to manage its symptoms and improve quality of life. If you are experiencing tinnitus, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider, such as an audiologist or an ENT specialist, who can help determine the underlying causes of your tinnitus and work with you to create a personalized management plan.

Shelby Garrison is an audiologist at Audiology Consultants, P.C. For more information, visit audiologyconsultants.com. Stores are located in Davenport, IA, Muscatine, IA, Moline, IL, and Geneseo, IL.