Tinnitus

Hearing Loss

Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is one of the most common types of hearing loss. As we age, our cochlea (inner ear of hearing) loses some of it's sensory cells, either from every day damage or changes in the biomechanics of our auditory system. These cells are very important for sending signals to the auditory nerve and brain, but once damaged, they can send incorrect information which is often translated by the brain as sound - what we call tinnitus. 

If you have tinnitus, it's important to find out what the underlying cause is. Schedule a visit with your local audiologist to learn more.

Noise Exposure

Every person is different in how their auditory system is impacted by loud sound. There are general guidelines for safe exposure times and noise levels but if you're every worried about causing damage to your ears, put some earplugs in. 

If you are concerned about noise exposure in your past or your current daily endeavors, talk with your local audiologist to learn about protective measures.

Ear Problems

Wax build-up is one of the more common problems people have with their ears. Wax, for the most part, is a healthy and normal part of our ear canal. However, sometimes it gets built up and causes temporary hearing loss. Some people are more prone to wax build up than others. There are no great over-the-counter treatments so if you're wondering if you have wax build up, have your local audiologist check your ears for you.

Tinnitus is one of the hallmark symptoms of Meniere's Disease (MD) - a disease that impacts the fluid pressure in the inner ear.

Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) can cause your ears to feel full all the time, sometimes resulting in tinnitus. The Eustachian tube is a small tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat (important for "popping" your ears when your in the mountains or on an airplane).

Some people might develop complications with the tiny bones in the middle ear. These bones are important for transmitting sound to the inner ear of hearing but can sometimes fixate or stiffen, reducing their functionality. This can cause tinnitus in some cases.

Acoustic neuromas (also called vestibular schwannomas) are rare, benign growths on the auditory nerve. As they grow, they apply pressure to the nerve, potentially causing hearing loss or tinnitus. These growths tend to be one-sided so if you notice any change in hearing or ringing in one ear, get it checked by your local audiologist as quickly as possible.

Head Injuries

Head and neck injuries can cause an array of problems and hearing loss or tinnitus may not be the first noticeable symptom. Depending on the type and severity of the injury, there can be damage to the structures of the ear, the nerves going to the brain, or the centers of the brain responsible for understanding sound. Talk to your local audiologist if you are concerned about tinnitus following a head or neck injury.

Blood Vessels

Atherosclerosis can cause the arteries and veins supplying the inner ear to loose flexibility. When this happens, it causes the blood flow to be more forceful which can be perceived as a heartbeat sound in the ear.

Changes in blood pressure, particularly high blood pressure, can make tinnitus more noticeable.

Narrowing of a blood vessel can cause "kinking", resulting in irregular flow of blood and possible tinnitus.

Medications

Some powerful antibiotics like erythromycin, vancomycin, and neomycin can cause tinnitus².

Certain cancer medications are linked to tinnitus: methotrexate and cisplatin.

Diuretics, some antidepressants, and aspirin are also known to cause tinnitus.

Talk to your local audiologist if you noticed the onset or a change in your tinnitus after starting or adjusting your medications.

Sound Therapy

If you're new to exploring the sound therapy options for tinnitus, it might be worth exploring apps for your smart phone. Most of these apps are designed to help mask the sound of your tinnitus but they can also work to calm anxiety and help clear your mind. Check out or blog post on some of our favorites. 

Depending on the severity of your tinnitus and whether there are other underlying problems, personalized sound devices might be the right thing for you. Your audiologist can help you learn more about these options as they are extremely personalized and specific for your unique needs.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

There are lots of programs around the world to help with tinnitus management. Talk with your audiologist about what type of program may be right for now. Whether an online program or a one-on-one setting is best for you, we'll help you sort out what's the best fit for your needs.

Ear Wax Removal

During your physical exam with your audiologist, they will take a good look in your ears using an otoscope. This will let us know if there's any type of blockage or other ear condition that may need to be treated. If there is a buildup of earwax, most of the time your audiologist can remove it during your appointment. If a referral to an ear, nose, and throat specialist (otolaryngologist) is required, we will help you find the nearest one.

Heart Conditions

Depending on what type of heart conditions you might have, your audiologist can help direct you to get the care you need. It's important that your heart is working as optimally as possible.

Change Medications

Your audiologist can help you assess your history with medications to see if there might be a link. It's always a good idea to chat with your doctor if you have concerns or notice a change in your hearing or tinnitus following changes to medications.

Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT)

TRT is an involved process that requires consistent work and effort to be effective. The combination of sound therapy and psychological impact helps reduce the person's perception and level of importance of tinnitus.