Common Causes of Ear Ringing (Tinnitus)
- Noise-induced hearing loss: Exposure to loud sounds — concerts, power tools, firearms — damages the hair cells in the inner ear, which can trigger tinnitus.
- Age-related hearing loss: As hearing naturally changes with age, tinnitus often accompanies it.
- Earwax blockage: A buildup of earwax can press against the eardrum and create ringing or a feeling of fullness.
- Ear infections: Middle or outer ear infections cause inflammation that can trigger tinnitus.
- Medications: Certain drugs — including high doses of aspirin, some antibiotics, and diuretics — are known to cause or worsen tinnitus (called ototoxic medications).
- Meniere's disease: An inner ear disorder causing episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
- Jaw disorders (TMJ): The jaw joint is located near the ear, and dysfunction can cause ear-related symptoms including ringing.
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular issues: Pulsatile tinnitus — a rhythmic whooshing or thumping in sync with your heartbeat — may be related to vascular conditions.
Types of Tinnitus
Subjective Tinnitus
The most common type, heard only by you. It is typically caused by problems in the outer, middle, or inner ear, or along the auditory nerve pathway.Objective Tinnitus
A rare form that an audiologist can actually hear during examination. It is usually caused by blood vessel problems, muscle contractions, or bone conditions in the middle ear.Pulsatile Tinnitus
A rhythmic sound that pulses in sync with your heartbeat. This type warrants prompt medical evaluation as it can sometimes indicate a vascular condition.When Should You Be Concerned?
While most tinnitus is benign, seek evaluation promptly if:
- Tinnitus comes on suddenly, especially in one ear.
- Tinnitus is accompanied by hearing loss or dizziness.
- The sound pulses in time with your heartbeat.
- Tinnitus follows a head injury.
- It is significantly affecting your sleep, mood, or daily activities.
Can Tinnitus Be Treated?
While there is currently no universal cure for tinnitus, there are highly effective management strategies. At Advanced Hearing & Balance Specialists, we offer thorough tinnitus evaluations followed by personalized treatment plans. Options may include sound therapy, tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT), hearing aids with built-in tinnitus
masking features, cognitive behavioral therapy referrals, and lifestyle modifications.
Many patients experience significant reduction in how much tinnitus affects their lives — even when the sound itself has not fully resolved. The goal is to reduce its impact so you can sleep, concentrate, and enjoy daily life again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my tinnitus go away on its own?
Can stress make tinnitus worse?
Does tinnitus mean I am losing my hearing?
You do not have to live with the burden of tinnitus. The audiologists at Advanced Hearing & Balance Specialists specialize in tinnitus evaluation and management. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward relief.
