Top 10 First Signs of Tinnitus

What is Tinnitus?

​Tinnitus is a condition where individuals perceive noises in their ears or head that do not originate externally. These noises, such as ringing, buzzing, hissing, or clicking, can impact one or both ears. It typically indicates an underlying issue like hearing loss, ear canal damage, or a circulatory system disorder.

10 Symptoms of Tinnitus

1.  Ringing or Buzzing Sound in the Ears
The most common sign is a ringing in the ears or a buzzing sound in the ears. This sound can be constant or intermittent and can range from a low hum to a high-pitched screech. Many people often describe it as a sound similar to a ringing phone or a swarm of bees.

2.  Hissing or Whistling Sound in the Ears
A hissing or whistling sound in the ears, ranging from soft to loud and intermittent or constant. People often compare it to the sound of a tea kettle or steam engine.

3.  Clicking or Popping Sound in the Ears
Clicking or popping sounds in the ears can be similar to a camera shutter or a cork popping. The volume of the sounds can vary from soft to loud.

4.  Sensitivity to Loud Noises 
Sufferers may be sensitive to loud sounds, including everyday sounds such as traffic or music. These sounds can intensify the ringing or buzzing in the ears, potentially causing pain or discomfort.

5.  Difficulty Hearing 
Loud noises can make it hard to hear clearly in noisy places and can make it tough to tell sounds apart. People may also have trouble understanding speech, especially in noisy settings.

6.  Ear Pain or Pressure
Ear pain or pressure because of changes in the middle ear or muscle contractions. Best to reach out to an Ears, Nose and Throat specialist.

7.  Dizziness or Vertigo 
May make you feel dizzy or off balance due to changes in the inner ear or brain adjusting to ringing sounds. 
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8.  Changes in Hearing 
Tinnitus can cause muffled or distorted sounds and may indicate damage to the hair cells in the inner ear. We recommend seeing a doctor if you have these symptoms.

9.  Neck or Jaw Pain
Some people may experience neck or jaw pain. Tension in the muscles of the neck and jaw can be a result of the brain trying to compensate for the ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. 

10. Changes in Vision
Vision changes such as blurred vision, double vision, or temporary blindness may occur because of changes in blood flow to the eyes or the brain compensating for the ringing or buzzing sound. If you experience vision changes, consult a doctor immediately.

Treatment Options

• Hearing aids can help reduce ringing or buzzing in your ears if your tinnitus is caused by hearing loss.
• Sound therapy: This involves using external sounds to mask the ringing or buzzing sound in your ears. This can include white noise machines, music, or nature sounds.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can teach you ways to deal with tinnitus symptoms.
• Medications to help reduce the symptoms in some cases.
• In rare cases, a doctor may suggest surgery to treat an underlying condition that causes tinnitus.

How to Prevent Tinnitus

​Although you cannot always prevent tinnitus, you can take some steps to reduce your risk of developing it. These include:

• Protecting your ears from loud noises: Wear earplugs or earmuffs when exposed to loud noises, such as at concerts or while using power tools.
• Limiting your exposure to loud noises: If you work in a noisy environment, take breaks to give your ears a rest.
• Managing stress: Stress can make tinnitus worse, so finding ways to manage stress can help reduce symptoms.
• Avoiding ototoxic medications: Some medications can cause tinnitus as a side effect. Talk to your doctor about the potential side effects of any medications you are taking.

Conclusion
Tinnitus is a common condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age. If you experience any of the top 10 signs of tinnitus, Northumberland  Hearing Center specialists can help with a free hearing test. Visit our website to schedule an appointment. With the right care, you can manage the symptoms and enhance your standard of living.