Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a general term to describe a sound that one may hear in their head. These sounds can often be described as ringing, clicking, crickets, or a heart beat (known as pulsatile tinnitus. People with tinnitus are not alone. In fact, over 36 million Americans are affected by it.

The causes of tinnitus can sometimes be as simple as wax on the eardrum or as complex as a tumor on the hearing nerve. Various ear diseases, like Meniere's disease, can have tinnitus associated with it. In addition, certain medications as well as alcohol can also lead to tinnitus. All too often, exposure to loud noises such as a gun firing or rock concerts may create tinnitus.

Ear, nose and throat physicians will often evaluate tinnitus with various hearing tests, and at times, CT scans, MRI's and ultrasounds may be necessary.

The treatment of tinnitus is multifold and may consist of the following methods:

• Using background noise from a fan, radio, TV, or the use of a professional masking device can help to block the noise.
• Behavioral/Lifestyle Changes including diet and exercise
• Intensive Tinnitus Retraining Therapy
• Acupuncture
• Pharmacological interventions including use of medications and/or herbal supplements