Ringing & Humming Ears (Tinnitus): Causes
Tinnitus is the perception of ringing, humming, buzzing, or other sounds in the ears without an external source. It affects people of all ages and can be temporary or chronic. While not a disease itself, tinnitus is often a symptom of an underlying issue that requires attention.
Ringing & Humming Ears (Tinnitus): Factors
Tinnitus can result from various factors, including:
- Exposure to Loud Noises: Prolonged exposure to high-decibel sounds can damage the inner ear.
- Earwax Buildup: Blockages in the ear canal can cause pressure and ringing sounds.
- Ageing: Age-related hearing loss is a common tinnitus cause.
- Ear Infections & Inflammation: Conditions like otitis media and otitis externa can lead to temporary tinnitus.
- Sinus Pressure & Inflammation: Sinusitis can block the Eustachian tube, create ear pressure, and cause mucous buildup, leading to tinnitus.
- Hearing Aids & AirPod Use: Prolonged use may contribute to ear irritation and ringing sensations.
- TMJ Disorders: Jaw joint issues can impact the ear and cause tinnitus.
- Ototoxic Medications: Some prescription drugs can be damaging to the inner ear and lead to tinnitus as a side effect.
- Circulatory Problems: Poor blood flow to the ears can create a pulsing or humming sound (pulsatile tinnitus).
Symptoms of Tinnitus
Tinnitus symptoms vary from person to person and may include:
- Persistent or intermittent ringing, humming, buzzing, or whistling sounds
- Sounds that seem to worsen in quiet environments
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping due to ear noises
- Ear pain, pressure, or discomfort
- Dizziness or balance issues associated with ear conditions
Effective Treatments for Ringing & Humming Ears
The best treatment depends on the underlying cause:
Managment & Prevention:
- Reduce Exposure to Loud Noises: Wear ear protection in noisy environments.
- Reduce listening time when using AirPods or headphones: The less you use these devices, the more you will protect your hearing
- Avoid: Cotton swabs, foreign objects or fingers
- Manage Stress: High stress levels can worsen tinnitus symptoms.
Medical Treatments:
- Professional Earwax Removal by an Ear Nurse: Gentle cleaning for clear hearing.
- Hearing Aids & Sound Therapy: Helps mask tinnitus for those with hearing loss.
- Medications & Therapies: Treatment options for underlying conditions.
- Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT): Helps reduce awareness and impact of tinnitus.
Expert Ear Nurse Advice
Our professional ear nurses provide expert care, including:
- Tinnitus Assessments: Identify if your issue is tinnitus. There can be other causes of “noisy ears”.
- Earwax Removal & Cleaning: Professional procedures to eliminate blockages.
- Hearing Tests & Hearing Aid Support: If needed, we can refer you to an appropriate audiology specialist for further management
- Lifestyle Guidance: Strategies to help manage tinnitus.
How to Protect Your Hearing
- Limit exposure to loud sounds to prevent further damage.
- Practice good ear hygiene to avoid infections and blockages.
- Use sound or sound therapy for relief.
- Seek professional help so you can learn how to prevent worsening symptoms.
Don’t let tinnitus affect your health and well-being.
📞 Call us: 1300 260 750
📍 Visit us at our 6 locations: Brighton, Epping, East Melbourne, Glen Waverley, Surrey Hills & Truganina.
For more information on tinnitus, visit Healthdirect’s tinnitus page.