Tinnitus is the perception of ringing or other sounds in your ears that have no external source. If you are someone who experiences tinnitus, just know that you are not alone. A 2011 study reported that approximately 30 million Americans report that they experience tinnitus and about 1 in 4 people from ages 65-84. Tinnitus is also the number one disability reported by veterans in the VA system.
Causes
Researchers continue to explore tinnitus, but the following are some possible causes of your tinnitus:
- Hearing loss
- Medications
- Exposure to loud sounds
- Blood pressure issues
- While rare, a tumor on the hearing nerve can also cause tinnitus
Signs
Patients report a wide range of sounds (ringing, buzzing, etc.) and how loud they feel the tinnitus to be. Below are some signs that it may be time to visit Jacksonville Hearing and Balance Institute to be further evaluated
- Experiencing a “pulsing” sound or hearing your heartbeat
- Tinnitus associated with spells of dizziness
- Only hearing the tinnitus in one ear
- If you feel the tinnitus is interfering with your ability to properly communicate or hear those closest to you.
Tinnitus and Hearing Loss
Many patients with tinnitus do not realize that they have hearing loss. They believe that it is the tinnitus itself that causes their communication difficulties. It is not until they make an appointment with their audiologist that they realize they have experienced a loss in hearing. For a lot of patients, addressing the hearing loss with hearing aids can help to provide some relief from the tinnitus. Many of today’s hearing aids have special tinnitus programs.
It is important to know that there is no proven cure for tinnitus. If you do wish to try a medication or supplement, be sure to speak with your physician first!
For more information on tinnitus, hearing loss and hearing aids visit www.jhbi.org or www.betterhearingjax.com Or call us at 904-399-0350 to schedule an appointment today.