Tinnitus

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a condition where you hear ringing, buzzing, or other noises in your ears that no one else can hear. These sounds can be constant or come and go.

Common symptoms of tinnitus include:

Hearing sounds like ringing, buzzing, or humming.
These sounds can be soft or loud and happen in one or both ears.
The sounds can be constant or intermittent
Sometimes, the noise is so bothersome that it becomes hard to concentrate.

About 15% to 20% of people experience some form of tinnitus in their lifetime. This means millions of people understand what you are going through.

Common Causes of Tinnitus

Dealing with tinnitus can be tough, but understanding the common causes can help you take the first steps toward managing it.

Noise Exposure - Being around loud noises can damage the tiny cells in your ears.
Ear Infections - Recent ear infections might be the source of the ringing or buzzing in your ears.
Hearing Loss - As we age, hearing loss becomes more common and is a very common cause of tinnitus.
Certain Medications - Some medicines can cause Tinnitus as a side effect.
Wax build up - Wax build up in the ears can cause some forms of tinnitus.

Send a Message

The Impact of Tinnitus on Your Daily Life

Living with tinnitus can sometimes feel overwhelming, but knowing you're not alone is essential.

Mental Health

Tinnitus can be frustrating and stressful. Listening to a constant noise may make you feel isolated or anxious.

Sleep

If you have tinnitus, you might find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep.

Focus

Tinnitus can make it harder to concentrate, especially when you're trying to focus on work or studying.

Tinnitus Testing and Evaluation

If you’re experiencing a ringing sound in your ears, it might be tinnitus. Our audiologists can run some simple tests to figure out what's going on and how to help you.

Hearing Tests

The first test might be a hearing test. You’ll wear headphones and listen to different sounds, which will help you determine how well you can hear at different pitches and volumes.

Listening for Tinnitus

Our audiologists will use a special instrument called an audiometer that lets you listen to sounds. You’ll tell us which sounds are closest to what you’re hearing. This helps narrow down the cause of tinnitus.

Talking About Your Medical History

Our audiologists will also ask about your medical history. Although it might seem like a lot of questions, this helps them understand the whole picture.

Past Injuries: Have you ever had a head injury or ear injury?
Medications: Are you taking any medicine that could affect your ears?
Noise Exposure: Have you been around loud noises at concerts or work?
Health Conditions: Do you have other health issues, like diabetes or high blood pressure?

The Role of Counseling in Tinnitus Management

Tinnitus can feel confusing and overwhelming. Counseling, however, can be a big help.

Comprehensive Care For Tinnitus

Integrating testing, counseling, and management strategies allows you to receive personalized care that works best for you.

Management

Once you understand your tinnitus better, the next step is to find ways to manage it.

Sound Therapy: Playing background noises or white noise.
Hearing Aids: These can enhance other sounds, making the ringing less noticeable.
Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises.

What works for one person might not work for another, so finding the right combination is important. We at Little Falls Hearing Clinic are here to help you tailor a plan that meets your needs.