What is Tinnitus
- Health Care
- by Hearing Well Matters!
- info@hearingwellmatters.ca
Tinnitus is the perception of noise in the ear when no external sound is present. It is also sometimes referred to as ringing in the ears. Tinnitus affects about 15-20% of adults and can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions, including age-related hearing loss, ear injury, certain medications, and circulatory system disorders.
Symptoms of Tinnitus
Tinnitus can manifest in several different ways, including:
- Ringing in the ear
- Clicking in the ear
- Humming in the ear
- Roaring in the ear
- Hissing in the ear
- Buzzing in the ear
The frequency and severity of tinnitus can vary greatly from person to person. For some people, tinnitus is a minor annoyance. For others, it can be debilitating and interfere with daily activities.
Tinnitus can sometimes be accompanied by dizziness or balance problems. If you are experiencing these symptoms along with tinnitus, it's important to see a doctor to determine the cause.
Treatment for Tinnitus
There is no known cure for tinnitus, but there are several treatments that can help manage the symptoms. These include:
- Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT): TRT is a cognitive-behavioral therapy that helps people to habituate to tinnitus. TRT involves counseling and sound therapy.
- Sound Therapy: Sound therapy involves using a device that generates sound to mask tinnitus. This can help to make it less noticeable.
- Lifestyle Changes: Several lifestyle changes can help to manage tinnitus, such as reducing stress, getting enough sleep, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol.
When to See a Doctor
If you are experiencing tinnitus, it is important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause and get treatment. You should see a doctor if your tinnitus is:
- Persistent
- Only heard in one ear
- Accompanied by dizziness and/or balance problems
- Affecting your day-to-day activities
If you have any concerns about tinnitus or hearing loss, contact Hearing Well Matters in Burlington for a comprehensive hearing assessment. They can be reached at (905) 681-4327 or you can visit their website.