Understanding and Managing Tinnitus; how to manage tinnitus. Learn about the causes of tinnitus, including ear wax buildup by The Ear Nurses.
How Ear Wax Removal Can Help
What is Tinnitus?
Ringing in the ears, known as tinnitus, is a common condition that affects people of all ages. Tinnitus is experienced as a sound that is not actually present outside of the ear, often described as a phantom perception. This perceived sound can vary widely, including ringing, clicking, hissing, high squeals, drilling, roaring, bells chiming, or even music. The intensity and pitch can differ, being soft or loud, low or high, and may occur in one or both ears.
Tinnitus affects individuals differently. For some, it is a minor annoyance that does not significantly disrupt daily activities. For others, it can be extremely disturbing and debilitating. Continue reading to find out how The Ear Nurses can help you.
How Common is Tinnitus?
In Australia, about 1 in 3 people will experience tinnitus at some point in their life. Approximately 1 in 6 have constant tinnitus symptoms, and around 90% of sufferers also have an underlying hearing loss. While the prevalence of tinnitus increases with age, it can affect people of all ages, including children.
Causes of Tinnitus
There are numerous causes of tinnitus, including:
- Noise exposure (the most common cause)
- Aging
- Middle ear infections
- Trauma
- Meniere’s disease
- Stress and fatigue
- Hormonal changes
In most cases, tinnitus is not curable but can be managed with appropriate care and guidance.
Ear Wax and Tinnitus
Ear wax can also cause tinnitus in some people. When earwax accumulates and hardens, it can block the ear canal, leading to several symptoms, including:
- Tinnitus: The obstruction can cause ringing or buzzing sounds in the ear.
- Hearing Loss: The blockage can prevent sound from reaching the eardrum.
- Earache: The pressure from the buildup can cause discomfort or pain.
- Fullness in the Ear: A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear is common.
Other debris in the ear canal, such as flaky skin or infection, can also precipitate tinnitus. If you suspect that earwax is causing your tinnitus, it’s important to avoid inserting objects into your ear, as this can push the wax further in or cause injury. Instead, you should consult a healthcare professional who can safely remove the earwax.
Professional Ear Cleaning and Ear Wax Removal
If you have tinnitus, visit the professionals at The Ear Nurses to have your ears assessed. Our ear nurses can provide a comprehensive assessment of your ears to determine if wax may be the cause of your tinnitus. Any wax or debris can also be removed using gentle microsuction and aural toilet techniques.
Having your earwax removed can improve your hearing and, in some cases, resolve or reduce your tinnitus. If you still experience tinnitus after treatment with us, we recommend seeing a hearing specialist or audiologist, and your GP for further assessment. This may include a review of your medical history, blood tests, medical imaging, and sometimes a referral to an ENT specialist for further investigation.
Contact The Ear Nurses today!
Tinnitus can be a distressing condition, but understanding its causes and seeking proper treatment can help manage the symptoms. Ear wax removal is one effective way to address tinnitus related to earwax buildup. If you suspect earwax is contributing to your tinnitus, consult The Ear Nurses and let them know you have tinnitus when you book your gentle yet effective ear clean.
You may also like to visit the Tinnitus Australia website at https://tinnitusaustralia.org.au/ to learn more about tinnitus.