Tinnitus

Tinnitus, also known as “ringing in the ears,” is a condition characterised by the perception of noise or ringing, buzzing, hissing, or clicking sounds in the ears when no external sound is present. It can affect one or both ears and may vary in pitch, frequency, and duration. Tinnitus is a symptom rather than a disease itself and can result from a variety of underlying causes. It ranges from being a mild nuisance to a debilitating experience for those affected. This article explores the causes, types, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and management strategies for tinnitus, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of this complex condition.

Understanding Tinnitus

Tinnitus is not a singular condition but a symptom of an underlying health issue. It is one of the most common health conditions, affecting approximately 10% to 15% of the adult population worldwide. While it is more prevalent among older adults, tinnitus can affect individuals of any age, including children.

Causes of Tinnitus

The causes of tinnitus are diverse and can involve various parts of the ear, compromising the outer, middle, and inner ear, as well as the pathways that lead to the brain. Common causes include:

• Hearing Loss: Age-related hearing loss or noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most prevalent common causes of tinnitus.
• Ear and Sinus Infections: Infections can lead to an increase in fluid pressure in the inner ear, causing tinnitus symptoms.
• Earwax Buildup: Excessive earwax can block the ear canal and contribute to hearing loss and tinnitus.
• Medications: Some medications, including certain antibiotics, cancer medications, and diuretics, can have tinnitus as a side effect.
• Cardiovascular Problems: Conditions that affect blood flow, like high blood pressure or aneurysms, can cause pulsatile tinnitus, where the noise is rhythmic and often in sync with one’s heartbeat.
• Neurological Disorders: Diseases like multiple sclerosis can affect the auditory pathways, leading to tinnitus.
• Meniere’s Disease: This inner ear disorder is characterised by episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
• Head or Neck Injuries: Trauma to the head or neck can affect the inner ear, hearing nerves, or brain function linked to hearing.

Types of Tinnitus

Tinnitus is categorised into two main types:

1. Subjective Tinnitus: The most common type, where the sound is only heard by the affected individual. It can be caused by problems in the outer, middle, or inner ear, as well as issues with the auditory nerves or the auditory pathways in the brain.
2. Objective Tinnitus: A rare form where the doctor can also hear the sound during an examination. This type of tinnitus may be caused by vascular anomalies, muscle contractions, or inner ear bone conditions.

Symptoms of Tinnitus

Tinnitus is primarily characterised by the perception of noise or ringing in the ears, but it can also manifest as other sounds, including buzzing, hissing, whistling, swooshing, or clicking. The sound may vary in pitch from a low roar to a high squeal and may be present in one or both ears. For some, tinnitus is a constant presence, while for others, it may come and go.