Tinnitus simply refers to the condition where one has a ringing sound in the ear. The distinction between this and what is normal is that in tinnitus, the individual perceives this sound without an external cause. It is important to realize that contrary to popular belief, this is not a disease; rather, it is a condition that manifests from a range of causes. Some of these causes include damage to nerves linked to the auditory system, infections of the ear, or an accumulation of ear wax. Insertion of foreign objects is also an underlying cause of tinnitus, as is an infection of the nasal passages so that fluid accumulates. In recent times, it has also been discovered that the frequent use of in-ear earphones at loud volumes is a common cause of tinnitus. This is worsened by the fact that some earphones release the sound energy entirely into the ear canal without diffusing it elsewhere.
Tinnitus Treatment
There are two types of tinnitus: objective and subjective tinnitus. Objective tinnitus occurs when the doctor is in a position to discern an actual sound produced in the patient’s ears. This may be a result of spas-mic sounds of the middle ear. Subjective tinnitus on the hand occurs from other causative agents, and occasionally the very same ones that lead to hearing loss. The most common of this type is resultant from continuous exposure to loud noises. Treatment for objective tinnitus is multi-faceted, but the first step is to clear the ear canal by getting rid of any wax that may be present. A neuro-stimulator has also been proven to be helpful for a number of patients as has the use of the Teflon implant to block the cochlea.
The tinnitus treatment for subjective tinnitus is the use of drugs that enhance sleep. Diet also plays a fundamental role in this because patients are advised to avoid caffeine-containing beverages. The use of salt may also be reduced to effectively counter this form of tinnitus. Electrical stimulation has also been found to be quite helpful. The idea is to pass a current through the patient’s head in a bid to decrease the effects of the ringing sound. In extreme cases, the severity of the condition may necessitate surgery to repair the perilymph fistula.
With these options, tinnitus cure may also come in the form of psychological cognitive behavorial therapy. This therapy uses a number of systematic procedures to enable individuals handle their own emotional changes through cognitive processes. By incorporating behavior in this form of treatment, patients are better placed to make decisions on their own as well as be in charge. Ultimately, this is a combination of many different approaches in handling tinnitus.
Additional Reading
What to do if you have tinnitus? by Harvard Health Publications