Tinnitus
What is Tinnitus?
Causes of Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a condition where you hear sounds—such as ringing, buzzing, or humming—in your ears even when no external noise is present. While the exact cause isn’t always clear, research has identified several factors that can increase the likelihood of experiencing tinnitus.
One of the most common causes is exposure to loud noise, whether from concerts, heavy machinery, or gunfire—making tinnitus particularly common among veterans and individuals in noisy work environments. While tinnitus often occurs alongside hearing loss, it can also develop without any noticeable hearing impairment.
Other potential triggers include:
- Certain Medications – Some antibiotics, painkillers, and other medications have been linked to tinnitus.
- Ear Conditions – Excess earwax, ear infections, and head or neck injuries can contribute to tinnitus symptoms.
- Underlying Health Issues – Tinnitus has been associated with Ménière’s disease, TMJ (jaw joint) disorders, high blood pressure, diabetes, and neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis.
- Unknown Causes – In some cases, tinnitus develops with no clear explanation, making personalized treatment and symptom management essential.
At Precision Hearing Care, our board-certified audiologists specialize in identifying and managing tinnitus to help you find relief. While there’s no universal cure, advanced hearing aids, sound therapy, and lifestyle adjustments can significantly improve your comfort and quality of life. If you’re experiencing tinnitus, schedule a consultation today to explore your options for relief.
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Symptoms of tinnitus
Tinnitus is a complex condition that presents differently for each individual. It commonly involves hearing phantom sounds such as ringing, buzzing, humming, hissing, or squealing, which may seem to come from one or both ears or even from different parts of the head. The loudness and pitch of these sounds can fluctuate over time or remain constant.
Interestingly, some people experience somatosensory tinnitus, where certain body movements—like turning the neck, moving the jaw, or shifting the eyes—can alter the perception of the tinnitus sound.
Most tinnitus cases are subjective, meaning only the person experiencing it can hear the noise. However, in rare cases, objective tinnitus can be detected by a healthcare provider using a stethoscope. This type of tinnitus is often linked to specific underlying conditions and may have a treatable cause.
At Precision Hearing Care, our board-certified audiologists take a comprehensive approach to tinnitus evaluation and management, offering personalized treatment options based on your specific symptoms. Whether your tinnitus is mild or persistent, we are here to help you find relief and improve your quality of life. Schedule an appointment today to explore your options for managing tinnitus effectively.