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: Earwax build-up may contribute to a blocked sensation, changes in hearing, or ringing sensations in some people.
- 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: Sinus congestion and Eustachian tube issues may contribute to ear pressure or changes in ear sensations, which some people describe as tinnitus.
- Hearing Aids & AirPod Use: Listening at high volumes or for extended periods may contribute to increased sound exposure, which can affect hearing health.
- 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
Management Options 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:
- Earwax Assessment and Removal: If earwax is contributing to symptoms, removal may be considered where clinically appropriate.
- Hearing Aids & Sound Therapy: Sound therapy may be used as part of tinnitus management for some individuals.
- Medications & Therapies: Treatment options for underlying conditions.
- Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT): Tinnitus Retraining Therapy is one approach that may be used to help some people manage their response to tinnitus.
Expert Ear Nurse Advice
Our Professional Ear Nurse Guidance on Tinnitus:
- Tinnitus Assessments: Assess symptoms and discuss whether tinnitus may be contributing to your experience.
- Earwax Removal & Cleaning: Earwax assessment and removal where earwax is identified as contributing to symptoms.
- 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 advice if tinnitus is persistent, changing, or affecting daily activities.
Understanding tinnitus and available management options can help you make informed decisions about your ear health.
For more information on tinnitus, visit Health direct’s tinnitus page.
Further Reading – Got a buzzing or ringing in your ears? Here’s what the experts say
Read this article from THE AGE exploring tinnitus, including what may cause buzzing or ringing in the ears and what the experts recommend. Read the article in The Age → Here