TINNITUS

General Information

DEFINITION--A persistent sound heard in one or both ears when there is no environmental noise. Tinnitus can be an extremely common symptom of nearly all ear disorders as well as many other medical problems.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Ears.

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED--Both sexes; all ages.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS--A noise that may be ringing, buzzing, roaring, whistling or hissing sound, and be heard in one or both ears. The sound may be continuous, intermittent or synchronized with the heartbeat.

CAUSES--Normally the acoustic nerve transmits impulses to the brain as a result of vibrations produced by external sound waves. With tinnitus, for reasons not fully understood, the nerve transmits impulses that originate inside the head or within the ear itself.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES--No specific prevention known. Avoid the risk factors where possible.

What To Expect

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES--

• Your own observation of symptoms.
• Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE--A thorough medical examination is conducted to be sure all possible causes have been sought out and corrected with appropriate treatment.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS--There are usually no medical complications. Psychological problems may develop due to feelings of distress for those who find the noise intolerable.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Treatment of an underlying disorder may help, but often there is no cure and learning to cope is the only therapy. Some people tolerate the condition much better than others.

How To Treat

GENERAL MEASURES--

• If tinnitus continues following medical treatment for underlying disorder, the treatment is basically finding methods that help you cope with the constant noise.
• Try to ignore the sound by directing your attention to other things and activities.
• Play music in the background during the day and while falling asleep.
• Don't smoke. Get help with a cessation program if you need it.
• A hearing aid for any associated deafness may help mask tinnitus.
• Wear a tinnitus suppressor or masker, a device that fits in the ear like a hearing aid and presents a more pleasant sound.
• Electrical stimulation with cochlear implant may reduce tinnitus, but is appropriate for severe deafness only.
• See Resources for Additional Information.

MEDICATION--Medications do not help tinnitus.

ACTIVITY--Avoid getting overfatigued as it may worsen the tinnitus.

DIET--Cutting back on caffeine and chocolate may help some patients.

Call Your Doctor If

• You or a family member has symptoms of tinnitus.
• Feelings of distress about tinnitus worsen.