Tinnitus: what is it?
Tinnitus is a physical condition experienced as noises or ringing in the ears or head when no such external physical noise is present. Tinnitus is usually caused by a fault in the hearing system. It is a symptom, not a disease in itself.
The word tinnitus, of Latin origin, means 'tinkling or ringing like a bell'. It is usually pronounced tinn-itus, with the first ‘i’ as in ‘sit’.
What causes tinnitus?
There are many causes—almost everything that can go wrong with our ears can produce tinnitus as a symptom. Perhaps it is as simple as wax against the eardrum, or as serious as a tumour on the hearing nerve. Otosclerosis (fixation of the tiny stirrup bone in the middle ear) can produce tinnitus; so can Meniere’s disease. A major cause of tinnitus is exposure to excessive noise, e.g. chainsaws, machinery, rock concerts. Noise destroys!
Is tinnitus understood?
Worldwide research continues but the actual mechanisms or processes of tinnitus are not yet fully understood. We do know that tinnitus is real, not imagined, and that it is a symptom of a malfunction, usually somewhere in the hearing system (which includes the ears and brain). The inner ear, or cochlea, is involved for many people.
Do many people suffer from tinnitus?
Yes, millions around the world! Probably 18 per cent of Australians have tinnitus at some time of their lives and about 50 million Americans have tinnitus in some form. Countries with self-help groups include the USA, UK, Germany, Canada, New Zealand and Australia.
Severe tinnitus is recognised as a major affliction, but most people have tinnitus to a milder degree. Given time, commitment and up-to-date professional help, tinnitus can be reduced for many people.
What can make tinnitus worse?
- Loud noise. Exposure to sudden or long-term noise can damage your hearing with resultant deafness and tinnitus. High-risk groups include industrial workers, farmers and transport workers. And don't forget that noisy lawn mower! Reduce the noise source or protect your ears with earplugs, or ear muffs. Leisure noise can also be a hazard, e.g. rock concerts, boom boxes in cars and misuse of a Walkman—never play it loudly.
- Stress and fatigue. They make tinnitus worse. Keeping busy, trying to focus your energies outward and away from the tinnitus, is an excellent idea, but stress and fatigue only undermine you. Minimise them by rethinking your lifestyle. Relaxation therapy can help greatly if learnt and practised daily. Hypnotherapy from a qualified practitioner may help. Sports, hobbies, yoga, tai chi, reflexology and massage may also help.
- Medications. It is essential to tell your family doctor about your tinnitus. Some common medications cause tinnitus as a side effect or make your existing tinnitus worse. Take special care with medications for arthritis and rheumatic diseases, as well as aspirin and some antibiotics and anti-depressants. Ask your doctor about alternatives.
- Try easing off caffeine (tea, coffee, cola, chocolate) and alcohol as they can temporarily worsen tinnitus for some people. Avoid quinine, as in tonic water, nicotine and marijuana. Smoking narrows your blood vessels which supply vital oxygen to your ears and their sensory cells.
Does tinnitus mean that one is going deaf?
Tinnitus is a symptom of a fault in the hearing system, so usually it is associated with a hearing loss. Sometimes tinnitus is present with normal hearing and for no discernible reason. Treat tinnitus as a warning signal—protect against excessive noise and see your doctor.
Last Reviewed: 18 May 2007
