Tinnitus is commonly referred to as “ringing in the ear” because that is what the person who suffers from it experiences. It is the perception of a sound, constant or sporadic, in one or both ears that cannot be heard externally. Tinnitus can be many different sounds like the ringing commonly described but also buzzing, roaring, whistling, hissing or clicking. It can present as one or more tones at varying frequencies.
What causes Tinnitus?
There is no known exact cause for tinnitus. Research has been able to identify certain sources that can trigger or worsen tinnitus. Some of these sources include: noise exposure, impacted wax, tumors, ototoxic medications, jaw misalignment and trauma to the head and neck. It is typically associated with the onset of hearing loss due to damage to the cochlea or hearing organ. Tinnitus may present itself before the hearing loss becomes noticeable in daily life.
What are the treatments for Tinnitus?
Although there is no cure, tinnitus can be managed. It is estimated at 50 million people suffer from some form of tinnitus and of these, 12 million people are troubled enough to seek medical attention. Research is constantly being done to find the cause and cure. If you have a hearing loss along with tinnitus, there is a good chance that amplification in the form of hearing aids can mask the sound. Other treatments include sound therapy, drug therapy, cognitive therapy, biofeedback and TMJ treatments. For more information about Tinnitus, please visit the American Tinnitus Association http://www.ata.org/
