Ringing in the ears is not an uncommon occurence. It can occur as the result of injury, dental problems, diseases, and even changes in air pressure. Oftentimes, this annoying symptom will stop as suddenly as it started. Other times, ear-ringing continues for long periods and grows progressively worse. Doctors look for underlying causes to provide relief for sufferers.
Definition
Prolonged ear-ringing, along with other noises like swishing, roaring, whistling, or clicking, are diagnosed as tinnitus. Millions will experience this tormenting problem, though men are far more likely to suffer from tinnitus. Tinnitus can occur in any of the four parts of the ear associated with hearing: the outer ear, the inner ear, the middle ear or the brain.
Types
Doctors may refer to two types of tinnitus: pulsatile or non-pulsatile. Pulsatile tinnitus seems to accompany the beats of the heart. People may hear the sounds of their pulse thumping, or other rhythmic sounds caused by movement near the ear. Non-pulsatile tinnitus may be caused by nerves involved with hearing, and sometimes this kind of ear ringing is described as coming from inside the head. However, with both pulsatile and non-pulsatile tinnitus, the sound heard in the ear cannot be heard by others.
Causes
Two of the causes of ear-ringing are, unfortunately, quite common: hearing loss due to aging and/or excessive noise. In both cases, the cochlea, the part of the ear that "hears" is damaged. This kind of damage is often associated with both ears. Problems such as infection, or a build-up of earwax, can also cause tinnitus. Some drugs, including high dosages of aspirin can lead to tinnitus, as well as a blow to the ear or the head. People who suffer from TM (temporomandibular) or other dental problems may complain of ear-ringing or clicking noises. Vascular problems, like high blood pressure, can also cause strange sounds in the ear canal. Several different diseases are associated with ringing in the ears, most notably Meniere's Disease.
Treatments
Treatment for tinnitus depends on the underlying cause. However, since tinnitus is most commonly caused by ear damage (ie. ageing or loud noise), treatment is limited. Some people find relief in limiting caffeine or having a medical professional remove an earwax buildup. Occasionally, an anti-depressant may be prescribed. For patients who are bothered by ear ringing at night only, a device for playing "white noise" can be helpful. In many cases, people learn to live with the annoyance.
Prevention
One of the most common causes of ear-ringing can be traced to the damage associated with prolonged exposure to loud noises. Young people can significantly decrease their risk of tinnitus by listening to music at normal levels, especially when using headphones or ear buds.
Warning
Though ear ringing is generally not indicative of a serious problem, there are instances where medical attention is necessary. Ear ringing that comes on suddenly or in one ear only should be checked, as well as any ear noises that are accompanied by other unusual symptoms.
Tags: associated with, also cause, causes ear-ringing, dental problems, pulsatile non-pulsatile