Tinnitus, or “ringing in the ears,” is the sensation of hearing sounds that are not present in the external environment. If you are suffering from a ringing, buzzing, whooshing or clicking in your ears, you are not alone. Over 50 million Americans report some degree of tinnitus. Tinnitus is typically the result of damage to the auditory system, though there are many potential causes.
Tinnitus is a symptom, not a disease. Often the exact cause is not known. Potential causes include:
- Exposure to loud or sudden impact noises
- Reaction to medication
- Head or neck injuries
- Untreated medical conditions
- Natural aging process
It is important to consider treatment, because bothersome tinnitus can cause sleep disturbance or a disruption to your normal activities. It can also lead to difficulty concentrating, stress, anxiety and depression. Fortunately, tinnitus can be effectively managed.
If you or a loved one is struggling with ringing ears, ask us about possible solutions. The path to relief begins with this conversation.