Experiencing a ringing sensation in your ears can range from a minor annoyance to a significant disruption. It might occur in one or both ears, lasting anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.
For some individuals, this persistent ringing, known as tinnitus, becomes a constant companion, significantly affecting their daily lives.
If you’ve recently noticed this ringing and are curious about its causes and possible solutions, this guide aims to provide clarity. It will not only explain what tinnitus is but also offer practical suggestions on how to alleviate or stop the bothersome ringing in your ears.
Understanding the origins of tinnitus and exploring potential remedies can help you manage and improve your overall quality of life.
What is ringing in the ear?
Tinnitus is the term used to describe the sensation of hearing ringing in the ears without any external source. If you find yourself in a quiet environment and suddenly hear a ringing sound in one or both ears, it’s likely tinnitus.
While tinnitus is generally not a serious issue, it can be bothersome, especially if the ringing persists for more than a few minutes.
Tinnitus can affect anyone, but it’s more commonly reported in individuals over the age of 65. Additionally, it can occur unexpectedly, even if you’ve never had any previous issues with your ears.
What does ringing in the ear sound like?
While tinnitus is commonly known as a ringing in the ears, it can be perceived differently by individuals and may be described as:
- Humming.
- Buzzing.
- Throbbing.
- Whooshing.
- Hissing.
- Grinding.
- Music.
Some people even mention hearing sounds that match the rhythm of their heartbeat. While these noises might seem harmless and may not pose a major issue for most, severe cases of ear ringing can result in problems like insomnia or depression.
It’s advisable to consult with a doctor or ear care professional if you experience regular instances of ringing in the ears.
What causes ringing in the ear?
The exact causes of ear ringing are not clearly defined. It might be related to issues in how the ear processes sounds or how the brain interprets them. Various factors could contribute to tinnitus, such as:
Hearing Loss
Age-related hearing loss, especially in the elderly, is often linked to tinnitus. It’s uncertain if one directly causes the other, but there’s a connection between the two.
Exposure to loud noises leading to hearing loss has also been associated with tinnitus, and this can affect younger individuals.
Inner Ear Damage
Damage to the cochlea in the inner ear can disrupt signals sent to the brain that control the sounds we hear. The brain may attempt to compensate by picking up sounds from the damaged cochlea, potentially causing tinnitus.
Ear Infections
Both outer and middle ear infections can contribute to ringing in the ears. Excess fluid buildup can result in swelling and pressure on the eardrum, which is linked to tinnitus. Fortunately, this is usually temporary and resolves as the infection clears.
Perforated Ear Drum
A perforated eardrum, caused by factors like ear infections or exposure to very loud noises, can lead to temporary tinnitus. Once the eardrum heals, the ringing typically stops.
Ménière’s Disease
Ménière’s disease is a rare condition affecting both balance and hearing in the inner ear. Currently, there is no cure. Ringing in the ears is one of the symptoms, often accompanied by episodes of vertigo.
Can ear wax cause ringing in the ear?
Yes, having too much ear wax can cause tinnitus. When there’s an excess of ear wax, it can block your ears, and this blockage is a potential trigger for ringing in the ears.
The surplus ear wax not only hinders normal hearing but also exerts pressure on the eardrum. This pressure disrupts the usual ear processes, which is why you might experience the sensation of ringing in your ears.
Moreover, an accumulation of ear wax can affect your hearing, increase the risk of ear infections, and even lead to a perforated eardrum.
How to stop ringing in the ear
Tinnitus, the ringing in your ears, can sometimes go away by itself, especially if it’s caused by a temporary issue like an ear infection or a perforated eardrum. In some cases, it lasts for about 6-12 months and then clears up. However, if it’s caused by things like hearing loss or Ménière’s disease, it might be more persistent.
If you’ve been dealing with tinnitus for a while, you might have experienced habituation, where you get used to the sounds, and they no longer bother you much. There are some active ways to manage or reduce the effects of tinnitus:
Correcting Hearing Loss
If your tinnitus is linked to hearing loss, addressing the hearing loss can often treat the root cause and, hopefully, reduce or stop the tinnitus.
Therapy
Therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and tinnitus sound therapy can help you manage the ringing in your ears and any related issues like anxiety or depression. While these therapies may not entirely stop tinnitus, they can ease the psychological distress associated with it.
Ear Wax Removal
If excessive ear wax is causing your tinnitus, removing the wax can be a straightforward solution. P
professional ear wax removal, done safely through methods like micro suction, not only clears your ears but also reduces the risk of infections that can contribute to tinnitus.
Microsuction from ear care clinic
If you think ear wax might be causing the ringing in your ears and you want a quick and painless solution, micro-suction at Ear Care Clinic is the way to go. Microsuction stands out among other methods for ear wax removal—it’s safer, there’s no downtime, and you don’t have to use drops for weeks before the procedure. Plus, it can be done even if you have an ear infection.
