Tinnitus is a persistent sound heard in one or both ears when there is no external noise. Tinnitus is a symptom of many ear disorders as well as many other medical problems. This condition can produce a brief episode or develop into a permanent condition. Often, tinnitus is associated with hearing loss. It is more common in older people, with over 30% of the people over 60 having some degree of tinnitus. Most people suffering from tinnitus only hear the sounds when they concentrate in a quiet room.
Causes of Tinnitus
Tinnitus may occur without any identifiable cause. It can occur with presbycusis, noise induced hearing loss and Meniere's disease. Anemia and hyperthyroidism can produce tinnitus. Certain drugs, especially aspirin and some antibiotics, can lead to tinnitus and possibly hearing loss. Damage to the cochlea, where sound is changed to nervous impulses or damage to the acoustic nerve can produce tinnitus. This can be see with infections, skull fractures and tumors of the vestibular nerves, acoustic neuromas.
Signs and Symptoms of Tinnitus
Tinnitus can produce ringing, buzzing, roaring, whistling or a hissing sound. It may be heard in one or both ears, and sound may be continuous, intermittent or synchronized with the heartbeat.
advertisement
Find more information
Advertisement
Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
Disclaimer
The information contained on this site is for the sole purpose of
being informative. This information is not and should not be used or relied upon as medical
advice. Always seek the advice of your physician, nurse
Or other qualified health care provider before you undergo any treatment or
for answers to any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
If you believe you have a medical emergency, please discontinue use
of MyElectronicMD and call 911 now.
Nothing contained on or provided through the service is intended to be or is
to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment.
Your use of this site is subject to certain terms and conditions.
