Tinnitus is a perceived internal noise that only people experiencing the condition can hear. Tinnitus commonly presents as a ringing, buzzing, static or ‘insect-like’ (especially cicadas) noise. Tinnitus can be experienced intermittently or constantly, in one or both ears, at a soft or loud volume and at a high or low pitch.
Hearing loss accompanied by tinnitus is common. Research suggests that tinnitus sounds may be generated by the brain as a substitute for sounds no longer reaching the brain due to hearing loss. However tinnitus can also affect people with no hearing loss, and can be caused or aggravated by a variety of factors.
Causes of tinnitus
There are many possible causes of tinnitus, and tinnitus can be a symptom of other underlying health issues. Examples of potential causes and aggravators of tinnitus include:
- exposure to loud sounds or sudden high impact noises
- hearing loss
- reaction to certain medicines
- head or neck injuries
- anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress
- unhealthy lifestyle factors – stress, poor sleep patterns, unhealthy diet, lack of exercise
- outer and middle ear pathologies – wax blockage in the ear canal, infections, calcification of the eardrum or ossicles (middle ear bones)
- cranial, dental or jaw health concerns
- other untreated medical conditions
Tinnitus management
If you experience tinnitus, please contact Mackay Hearing to book a comprehensive diagnostic hearing and tinnitus assessment.
A hearing assessment will determine if the tinnitus is accompanied by hearing loss. We can also help to quantify the tinnitus sound you experience, gauge the impact it has in your life and discuss management strategies and options for further support. Consultations solely focusing on tinnitus management and support are also available if required.
If you would like further information or wish to make an appointment, please contact our friendly local staff directly on (07) 4952 4649, email us at listening@mackayhearing.com.au, or leave us a message on our website.