Tinnitus

Are you experiencing Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a physical condition, experienced as noise or ringing in the ears or head when no such external physical noise is present in the environment. Tinnitus is usually associated with the auditory system however, many lifestyle factors can impact on the perception of Tinnitus; it is a symptom, not a disease in itself.

What Causes Tinnitus?

Almost any changes in our ears can produce Tinnitus as a symptom, from something as simple as wax against the eardrum, or as serious as a growth on the hearing nerve. 

A major cause of Tinnitus is the exposure to excessive noise from, for example, chain saws, machinery or live music. 

What Should I Do?

It is important to have your hearing checked properly by an Audiologist; some people require referral to an Ears, Nose and Throat specialist. If you are regularly exposed to loud noise ensure you are adequately protecting your ears.

If the Tinnitus is impacting significantly on your quality of life you can book an appointment with our Tinnitus specialist.

If you have a hearing loss, hearing aids can reduce the strain of listening and distract from the Tinnitus by bringing you more environmental sounds.

Summary

Everybody's Tinnitus is individual to them, although commonly reported sounds are ringing, buzzing, whistling, roaring, humming etc. The causes of Tinnitus are many (though excessive noise and some medications are common preventable causes) and it is not always related to the ears.

In summary, Tinnitus can be complex. If it is troubling you, make an appointment with us.