It’s not uncommon to hear ringing, buzzing, or humming noises throughout the day, thanks to the technology and machines that surround us: Phones, laptops, TVs, and even our kitchen appliances fill our homes and workplaces with these kinds of sounds all day, and while they can definitely be annoying, we rest easy knowing we can always retreat to a quiet place to escape them.
But what if we can’t? What if those ringing, clicking, or buzzing noises followed you wherever you went — even into those quiet spaces, interfering with work, social activities, and sleep? That’s what it’s like to have tinnitus, a surprisingly common condition that affects millions of Americans every day.
At ENT Specialists, our team helps women and men understand what’s behind their tinnitus symptoms and explore ways to manage them. Here’s what you should know about this common condition and when it’s time to seek help.
Tinnitus is defined as the perception of sound that doesn’t come from an external source. In nearly all cases, tinnitus sounds are only audible to the person who has the condition. That said, pulsatile tinnitus associated with an aneurysm may be audible to our team, as well.
Although it might seem logical that the noises you’re hearing are coming from your ears, changes in the way your inner ear and brain process sound can play a role, too. Several factors can cause tinnitus, including:
Sometimes, tinnitus develops without an identifiable cause. Because multiple factors can be in play, an evaluation with our team is a critically important first step toward finding the right treatment so you can finally find relief.
At ENT Specialists, our team is skilled at identifying the root cause of tinnitus and developing personal treatment plans to reduce or eliminate your symptoms. During your initial evaluation, we’ll discuss your symptoms, ask about when they began, and discuss how they affect your everyday life.
We’ll review your medical history and use special instruments and technology to evaluate your ears and your hearing. Depending on your symptoms and other factors, we may recommend imaging tests to investigate a possible underlying cause.
Once we finish your in-depth assessment, we’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan that works for you. For instance, if earwax buildup or an ear infection is causing your symptoms, we’ll start by addressing that issue. If a medication or potential underlying medical problem could be playing a role, we may refer you to a specialist or work with your other healthcare providers to find a solution that works.
Sometimes, tinnitus symptoms can’t be completely eliminated. In that case, we can recommend approaches that make the sounds manageable and less noticeable, like sound therapy or special hearing aids.
Persistent buzzing or ringing noises definitely warrant an evaluation, but if ringing in just one ear, sounds that pulse in time with your heartbeat, or tinnitus accompanied by dizziness or changes in your hearing occur, you should call our office right away. Sudden hearing loss also requires immediate medical attention.
Tinnitus doesn’t affect just your hearing. Living with constant ringing, buzzing, and clicking can be exhausting, especially when it interferes with concentration, socializing, or relaxation time. The good news: You don’t have to put up with it — our team is ready to help.
To find out more, request an appointment online or by phone at one of our locations in Salt Lake City, Murray, Draper, Magna, or Tooele, Utah, to discuss your symptoms and take the next step toward relief.
