What causes tinnitus?

 

Approximately 30 million people in the U.S. suffer from tinnitus. While most cases of tinnitus result from hearing loss, there are a wide number of potential causes, including:

 

Hearing Loss – the most common cause of tinnitus is related to hearing loss

Exposure to loud noise – exposure to loud noise can cause permanent hearing loss and tinnitus

Earwax blockage — earwax blockage sometimes causes tinnitus if severe enough

Medication – More than 200 medicines, including aspirin, can cause tinnitus

Underlying conditions — in rare cases, tinnitus may be caused by an underlying medical condition such as Meniere’s Disease, head or neck injuries, tumors, blood vessel disorders, and others.

 

Tinnitus therapy treatment options

 

At DrHear, we will review your health history, rule out underlying conditions, test your hearing, and determine the best treatment plan. Treatment plans may include:

 

Hearing Aids – hearing aids can produce dual benefits by enhancing hearing and/or “masking” the tinnitus. In fact, more than 60% of hearing aid users report partial or complete tinnitus relief.

Treatment of the underlying condition – some cases of tinnitus can be treated by addressing the underlying condition, for example by removing excess earwax, treating a blood vessel condition, or by changing medications.

Drug Therapy – while drugs can’t cure tinnitus, certain medications may provide some relief.

Sound Therapy – numerous devices are capable of creating white noise that can mask the tinnitus and make it less bothersome.