What are the Causes of Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a condition associated with the sense of hearing. Otolaryngologists believe it is caused by various factors. Some of the causes of Tinnitus are unavoidable as they are related to health problems that arise from old age. However, some of the other causes are quite easy to handle and even remedy. The major challenge is that they could be quite complex, and in severe cases, they may result in total loss of hearing ability. Tinnitus, as a condition, is usually made worse by preexisting health conditions. In some rare cases, the actual cause is nearly impossible to determine. Aging is the leading cause of tinnitus in the US. Presbycusis is the medical term that refers to the loss of the sense of hearing as a result of old age. This condition is pervasive in the 60s age bracket.
Another common cause of this condition is colds or sinus infection. However, in most cases, sinuses only result in a temporary tinnitus condition which clears with time. Extended exposure to very loud noise is also known to cause tinnitus as a result of damage to the inner ear. High decibel noise such as that produced by rock concerts, jack hammers, heavy equipment, airplane engines and chain saws could lead to the condition. According to the American Tinnitus Association (ATA), some 50 million people in the US alone suffer from tinnitus. Cases of tinnitus are also on the rise in the American military, according to a survey carried out by ATA. Tinnitus also results in the damage of nerve endings found in the inner ear. These nerve endings aid in the capture of sound waves which is passed on to the brains for interpretation.
If you happen to work in a noisy environment on a daily basis, you are advised to wear ear earmuffs for protection. Advances in technology have seen the development of earmuffs with speech enhancement and noise reduction features. In some instances, tinnitus has been linked to personal hygiene. Failure to clean the ears of excess wax has been identified as a potential cause of tinnitus; despite the fact that wax is supposed to be a healthy and natural coating the ears. Ostoclerosis, which results in hardening of the small bones found in the ear, is a hereditary condition that has been identified as a cause too.
Some medications such as antibiotics and aspirin have also been identified as possible causes of tinnitus, especially when administered in large doses. A variety of drugs used in the fight against cancer have also been linked to the condition. Diseases and conditions which afflict the inner ear such as Meniere’s disease, could also give rise to the condition.
Other causes of this condition include high blood pressure, stress, diet as well as injuries. Tinnitus indeed has many causes. While some of the causes are purely medical, and thus require a medical solution, there are others that are linked to your lifestyle. It is important to understand the potential causes and try to adjust your lifestyle accordingly before consulting a physician.
