Description
Tinnitus is the sensation of hearing a sound when there is no external sound. The sound can be described as a ringing, buzzing or hissing. Tinnitus can occur for a variety of reasons including exposure to a loud noise, hearing loss associated with aging, inner ear trauma, wax build up, Meniere's disease, a brain tumor called acoustic neuroma, and medications. In some cases the cause cannot be determined.
Symptoms
The symptoms include a ringing, buzzing, hissing or whistling sound. The sounds may come and go or be constant.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam with special attention to the ears will be performed. In some cases, a hearing test (audiogram) and imaging studies will be performed.
Tests:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Audiogram
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology), Otology and Neurotology
Workup:
A history and physical exam with special attention to the ears will be performed. In some cases, a hearing test (audiogram) and imaging studies will be performed.
Tests:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Audiogram
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology), Otology and Neurotology
Treatment
Treatment varies depending on the cause of tinnitus. Wax removal and stopping certain medications may help. Some people respond to anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications. Others respond to biofeedback techniques and tinnitus training therapy (white noise generators that teach a person to ignore the tinnitus).