Tinnitus: Understanding Ringing In Your Ear

Many people experience a persistent ringing in their ears called tinnitus, a condition that affects roughly 20 percent of the American population. Tinnitus is defined as the perception of sound when none is actually occurring. For some it is a minor nuisance but for others, a major impediment to their quality of life. Tinnitus isn’t a disease itself, but a symptom. As such, it can occur as the result of a number of conditions. These include hearing loss, noise exposure, head or neck trauma, high blood pressure, vascular disorders, heart conditions, ototoxic medications, benign tumors known as acoustic neuromas and impacted earwax. Sometimes the cause is never determined.

Tinnitus is most often described as a ringing noise, but may also take the form of a buzzing, whooshing, roaring, clicking, hissing or whistling. Some tinnitus sufferers experience severe mental and emotional anguish. Side effects include fatigue, depression, anxiety, irritability and memory/concentration problems.

Our Experience With Tinnitus

Many patients come to The Hearing Solution with preconceived thoughts that nothing can be done to help the ringing in their ears. They arrive frustrated and powerless over the tinnitus that is “ruining their life.” 20% of the population has tinnitus, but only 10% of those have bothersome tinnitus that begins to affect their quality of life. It is important to us to offer hope to our patients. Sure, tinnitus is a permanent condition, because the cause of their tinnitus is likely permanent (most often hearing loss). However, how loud or annoying your tinnitus is perceived is NOT permanent. Through specialized tinnitus management, we can help change the perception of your tinnitus so it is no longer a bother or disturbance. Some of our patients report it goes away completely.

If you feel you may have tinnitus, in any form, we encourage you to schedule an appointment where we can explore solutions.

Tinnitus is most often described as a ringing in the ears, but may also take the form of a buzzing, whooshing, roaring, clicking, hissing or whistling.

Tinnitus can cause severe mental and emotional anguish. Side effects include fatigue, depression, anxiety, irritability and memory or concentration problems.

Most of our patients with tinnitus report a significant reduction in their tinnitus symptoms when they are wearing their hearing aids.

At The Hearing Solution, we can provide you with:

• Tinnitus Education
• Tinnitus Evaluation
• Hearing Evaluations
• Tinnitus Management
• Tinnitus Counseling
• Hearing Loss Treatment
• Multi-disciplinary Treatments
• Reassurance that we understand your condition

If you are suffering from tinnitus, please feel free to call (916) 646-2471 or schedule an appointment with us today!