A very challenging condition to live with is tinnitus. Though it is not always obvious you have it, tinnitus can be near impossible for some. Knowing the signs can help get an early diagnosis and better treatment. Below, we at the ENT Specialists list the most common symptoms of tinnitus and how to find relief.
Ringing in your ears is commonly the first symptom. The ringing volume ranges from subtle to loud and this is the symptom most patients experience. When there are no other noises around, the ringing becomes louder, and this makes it harder to handle. Also, during certain parts of the day, the ringing may become louder as well. If you notice this system, making your appointment with a specialist to help. We can find out if you have tinnitus and offer recommendations for the next step.
Much like the ringing symptom, patients will hear buzzing noises. You should consider that you might be developing tinnitus if you are hearing whistling, buzzing, white noise or other such noises. Hearing these noises should prompt you into scheduling an appointment with your specialist. Prior to your appointment write down your symptoms, when they occur or when they are loudest, as it proves to be useful as many people do not always note or remember this information. Your specialists can provide more solutions with more information.
One of the first signs that you are developing the condition is experiencing what is known as temporary tinnitus. You are likely to notice that there is ringing in your ears after visiting a nightclub for example, the temporary tinnitus can flare when exposed to loud noises. Knowing it is temporary will manifest itself as the symptoms will dissipate rather quickly. After this event you need to ensure that it does not get any worse and you should take precautions. Wearing ear protection to any event that has loud noise from now on is a good preventative measure to take.
Be on the lookout for headaches as this is the final symptom of tinnitus. Even though this is slightly less common, tinnitus can cause headaches in some people. Be sure to book an appointment with a professional if you are having an increase in headaches more than usual, and if they are more intense or accompanied by ringing.
The doctor will diagnose tinnitus be performing a hearing exam to rule out or identify tinnitus. A movement test is frequently used where the doctor asks you to move your eyes, clench your jaw, or move your neck, arms and legs. Imaging testing is also used, depending on the circumstances, CT or MRI scans.
Your doctor can help you reduce the noise by removing earwax, treating any blood vessel conditions, or changing the medications to manage the symptoms. Noise suppression may also be useful by using white noise machines, hearing aids, or other masking devices. Though medication cannot cure tinnitus, it can help deal with the severe symptoms. Such medication includes tricyclic antidepressants, like amitriptyline and nortriptyline. As well as alprazolam or Xanax. If you suspect you are living with tinnitus, call the ENT Specialists where we can rule it out or confirm this condition and help you better manage your symptoms.
