What Causes Tinnitus

Tinnitus, also known as ringing in the ears, can be caused by many things. Some of the causes of this ailment are external, such as exposure to loud noise, while some are internal, such as certain types of inner ear infections or disease. While the symptoms of tinnitus are often the same in people who suffer from it, the treatment for each person may vary a great deal. It has been estimated that nearly one in five people will suffer from tinnitus by the time they reach their mid-fifties.

In simple terms, tinnitus is the sensation of hearing noise, often classified as a ringing, when there is no noise actually present. Some of the sounds that those hear, in addition to ringing, include a whistling sound, humming, or a dull sort of thrum. In all cases, there is no actual external cause or source of the noise. For some individuals, the sound may be constant and for others it may be intermittent, coming and going for no apparent reason.

Within the ear itself, the part that is associated with sound is called the cochlea. This is a complex organ made up of sensory hairs, internal fluid and nerve receptors, all of which can easily be damaged, thus causing a wide variety of symptoms. When the cochlea is damaged the brain receives improper input signals that create interference that forms sound feedback which we know as tinnitus.

As mentioned above, there are external causes for tinnitus, which are commonly referred to as environmental causes. It has been estimated that about one-half of tinnitus cases are caused by environmental issues. Some of the more common environment issues include:

For many individuals, where they work can cause tinnitus. Loud power tools and other types of loud equipment can cause temporary bouts of tinnitus. Attending a loud concert can do the same. If the exposure last long enough or is routine, the damage can become permanent.

Studies suggest that smoking can also lead to tinnitus. Nicotine has been shown to be an irritant that can bring on bouts of tinnitus.

Certain types of drugs and medications are also known to bring on tinnitus. The list is long and includes drugs as popular as aspirin. Some types of antibiotics and other prescription drugs are also known to cause tinnitus. Of these, quinine and chloroquine are two common drugs that cause tinnitus. Also, some diuretics and cancer medications can also cause tinnitus.

There are also some physical causes of tinnitus. Some of the most common include:

Changes that occur in the bones of the middle ear.

Ear wax that has built up.

Aging.
Illness, diseases, and certain types of injuries.

The good news is there are remedies for tinnitus that range from over the counter treatments to treatments performed by professional care givers. If you suffer from tinnitus, consult with a professional. They may have the solution that you need. You do not have to live with that ringing in your ears. You can Learn more if you take action to treat it now.