Tinnitus Management by ENT Specialist

Overview

Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the ears or head without any external source. Commonly described as ringing, buzzing, humming, or hissing, tinnitus affects millions of people and can severely impact sleep, concentration, and quality of life. While it is not a disease in itself, tinnitus is often a symptom of an underlying issue involving the ear or auditory system. At our ENT-led Audiology Department, we specialize in comprehensive evaluation and treatment of tinnitus. ENT specialists work closely with audiologists to determine the root cause of tinnitus and create individualized management plans that provide relief and improve daily functioning.

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the sensation of hearing sound that doesn’t come from an external source. It can affect one or both ears, occur intermittently or continuously, and range from a minor annoyance to a debilitating condition.

There are two primary types:

• Subjective Tinnitus: The most common type, heard only by the person experiencing it.
• Objective Tinnitus: Rare, and audible to a doctor during examination, usually caused by vascular or muscular disorders.

Common Causes of Tinnitus

Tinnitus can be caused by a variety of ear-related and systemic conditions. ENT specialists are trained to diagnose and address these underlying issues:

• Hearing loss (age-related or noise-induced)
• Earwax buildup or ear infections
• Middle ear problems (e.g., otosclerosis)
• Meniere’s disease
• Exposure to loud noise
• Head or neck injuries
• Side effects of medications (ototoxic drugs)
• Jaw joint (TMJ) disorders
• High blood pressure or vascular abnormalities
  
  

When to See an ENT Specialist for Tinnitus

If you’re experiencing persistent or bothersome ringing, buzzing, or other phantom noises in your ears, it’s important to consult an ENT specialist, especially if:

• The tinnitus is constant or worsening
• It occurs with sudden hearing loss or dizziness
• You feel pressure or fullness in one ear
• You notice your tinnitus pulses in sync with your heartbeat (pulsatile tinnitus)
• It's affecting your sleep, focus, or mental health

Early evaluation can help identify treatable causes and prevent further complications.

Tinnitus Evaluation and Diagnosis

Our ENT specialists begin with a thorough clinical examination, followed by a battery of tests to understand the nature of your tinnitus:

• Otoscopy: To check for earwax, infections, or structural problems in the ear.
• Audiometry: To evaluate hearing levels and determine if hearing loss is contributing to tinnitus.
• Tympanometry: To assess middle ear function.
• Imaging: In specific cases, MRI or CT scans may be used to rule out rare causes like tumors or vascular issues.

If needed, we also refer patients to neurologists, dentists, or vascular specialists for a multidisciplinary approach.

Tinnitus Management Options

While there is no universal cure for tinnitus, many patients experience significant relief with a tailored management plan. Our ENT and audiology team offers the following:

1. Treating Underlying Conditions

• Earwax Removal: Simple and effective if wax blockage is the cause.
• Infection Treatment: Antibiotics or antifungal medication for ear infections.
• Surgical Intervention: For middle ear issues like otosclerosis or tumors.
• Medication Review: Adjusting ototoxic drugs that may worsen tinnitus.

2. Sound Therapy

• Use of low-level background noise (white noise machines, fans, or special devices) to distract from tinnitus sounds.
• Custom sound generators or hearing aids programmed to mask or minimize tinnitus.

3. Hearing Aids

If tinnitus is associated with hearing loss, hearing aids can significantly improve both hearing and reduce tinnitus perception by enhancing ambient sounds.

4. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps manage the emotional and psychological impact of tinnitus by changing the way you respond to the sound. It reduces distress, anxiety, and improves coping strategies.

5. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT)

Combines sound therapy with counseling to help the brain habituate to the tinnitus sound. Over time, the noise becomes less noticeable and distressing.

6. Lifestyle and Stress Management

• Techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing
• Reducing caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine intake
• Improving sleep hygiene
• Regular physical activity
  
  

Our team provides holistic support and counseling to help patients regain control over their symptoms and lifestyle.

Why Choose Our ENT and Audiology Clinic for Tinnitus?

• Expert ENT Consultation: Diagnosis and treatment of ear disorders linked to tinnitus.
• Certified Audiologists: Skilled in tinnitus evaluation and sound therapy.
• Advanced Technology: Latest hearing aids, sound maskers, and diagnostic tools.
• Customized Care: Individualized management plans based on your condition and lifestyle.
• Ongoing Support: Regular follow-ups, adjustments, and counseling as needed.

Take the First Step Toward Tinnitus Relief

OTinnitus doesn’t have to control your life. Our ENT and audiology experts are here to help you identify the cause and create a personalized treatment plan to reduce its impact. Don’t let ringing in your ears disrupt your peace. Book your consultation today and start your journey toward long-term relief.