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Tinnitus symptoms and causes
By Cara Jelinek, Aud (C), Reg. CASLPO
Tinnitus is the name for a persistent ringing in the ears. While sometimes no cause can be found, a variety of health conditions are known to trigger tinnitus. Tinnitus is defined as a constant or intermittent ringing sound heard in the ears or head that does not have an outside source. An estimated 37% of adult Canadians reported experiencing tinnitus in the past year, according to Statistics Canada. About 7% of those said the constant buzzing in their ears was bothersome enough to affect their sleep, concentration and mood. Symptoms of tinnitusTinnitus may be described as hissing, buzzing, ringing, roaring or rushing. Some people report sounds like insects droning or engines running. It can be constant, or intermittent. Many people notice it more at night, or when there are no other sounds around to distract them. The severity of tinnitus varies in people and may range from a mild annoyance for one person but interfere with work or daily activities for another person. Tinnitus has been associated with a variety of ailments, and while there is no known cure, there are a variety of management options. Causes of tinnitusIt’s important to know the sound is NOT imagined and is NOT a disease – it is a symptom of a malfunction somewhere in the hearing system. The exact physiological mechanism of tinnitus is not known, but research has shown there are several possible causes or triggers:
Hearing loss and tinnitusTinnitus triggersMany people with tinnitus report certain behaviours or dietary habits can trigger, or worsen, their tinnitus. These include caffeine, alcohol, high doses of aspirin, excessive salt in the diet, noise exposure, smoking and stress or anxiety. Treatments for tinnitusAlthough there is no “cure” for tinnitus, there are several at-home remedies and other tinnitus treatments that have been developed to help people dealing with ringing in the ears, including hearing aids. Management of tinnitus focuses on quality of life. When should you see a specialist for your tinnitus?It’s always a good idea to get your tinnitus evaluated by a hearing care professional. In some cases, you may be referred to emergency care, or an otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, throat specialist). Reasons for this include:
If you experience any of these symptoms in conjunction with tinnitus you should seek immediate medical attention. How to get helpTinnitus is a widespread and variable ailment that impacts people differently. It is normal to feel upset and anxious when you experience tinnitus, as it can be an unsettling and disruptive experience. Don't be hesitant to seek out behavioural help to minimize the emotional impact tinnitus has on your life. Visit a hearing professional near you to complete a hearing test and discuss your options for treatment. Cara Jelinek, Aud (C), Reg. CASLPOContributing author Cara Jelinek graduated with a master’s degree in audiology from the University of Western Ontario in 2003. She has over 15 years of clinical experience assessing and treating both adult and pediatric populations as well as actively participating in and leading community outreach, teaching and clinical management. Cara finds the variety and pace fulfilling and enjoys working with the public. She is also an active volunteer and coach in her local community.
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www.HearingDirectory.ca |
Tinnitus symptoms and causes
By Cara Jelinek, Aud (C), Reg. CASLPO
Tinnitus is the name for a persistent ringing in the ears. While sometimes no cause can be found, a variety of health conditions are known to trigger tinnitus. |