HearCare Audiology Center 2800 Hillview St., Sarasota, FL 34239, (941) 677-1075

The Cause of Your Ringing May Never Be Known

Is it Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the perception of sounds inside the head/ear that has no external

sound source. Many people report sound of ringing, buzzing, humming, and pulsing in the ear. This sound may occur constantly or intermittently. People

may suffer from bilateral (two ears) or unilateral (one ear) ringing. While the

cause of this issue is often difficult to be determined, common possible causes include: excessive noise

exposure, head trauma, typical aging processes, and pharmaceutical causes (ototoxic medications).

The cause of your ringing may never be known. It may

be accompanied by hearing loss and Hyperacusis. Hyperacusis is the abnormal perception that sounds

that are only moderately loud are very loud and uncomfortable. It is a common issue suffered by many

in the United States. For many, the issue is so severe

that it affects daily living. It is important for those experiencing ringing to seek evaluation and treatment

from a physician or audiologist.

Each patient experiences this disorder in a different way. For some, the ringing is just a slight annoyance while others may feel anxious, paranoid,

angry, or even depressed. Some are so bothered that the issue causes disturbances in their sleeping patterns or ability to concentrate during quiet

tasks (e.g., reading, sewing, writing, etc.). Quiet tasks appear to be an exceptionally difficult time for those even with mild bothersome ringing.

Treatment for this disorder involves masking, retraining, or other therapies. As of now, there is no known cure. No medication or surgical intervention

exists to stop the ringing. However, if a middle ear issue or ototoxic medication is the cause of your ringing, medical/surgical intervention or

changing medications may eliminate the issue. Speak with your physician regarding these options. Do not change medications without advisement by

your physician.

Counseling (e.g., Tinnitus Activities Treatment) may be a viable, beneficial

option for those suffering with the emotional toll of their ringing. Ask your

HearCare Audiology Center 2800 Hillview St., Sarasota, FL 34239, (941) 677-1075

hearing healthcare provider for more information. Sound therapy or maskers

may be effective in reducing the perception of the ringing. Sound therapy may be as simple as introducing sounds to the environment in quiet

situations (e.g., turning on a fan, soft music, etc.). Wearable sound generators or maskers are also available. These typically produce a soft

white noise (‘shhhh’) that gently reduces the prominence of the ringing sound. These wearable options can be used alone or may be coupled into a

hearing aid. Hearing aid use has also been found to effectively reduce ringing perception in patients with hearing loss.

Many patients find solace and help through self-help books and meditation.

There are many of these available on the market, and have been used with

varying degrees of success. Remember that your Tinnitus is real, and contact your hearing healthcare provider for help today!