How do you get tinnitus?
There are numerous causes of tinnitus. Some common causes include:
1. Exposure to loud noises: Prolonged exposure to extremely loud noises, either singular or repetitive, can damage the sensitive hair cells in the inner ear, leading to tinnitus. This can occur from various sources, such as industrial machinery, music concerts, using earphones/headphones at high volumes, or recreational activities like hunting, shooting, or using power tools without hearing protection.
2. Age-related hearing loss (Presbycusis): As people age, the sensory cells in the inner ear gradually deteriorate, resulting in a gradual loss of hearing sensitivity, especially in higher frequencies. Tinnitus is often associated with presbycusis, as it commonly affects older individuals.
3. Earwax impaction: Excessive or compacted earwax can obstruct the ear canal, affecting sound transmission and causing tinnitus.
4. Meniere's disease: This is a disorder of the inner ear characterized by episodes of dizziness (vertigo), fluctuating hearing loss, and tinnitus. The exact cause of Meniere's disease is unknown, but it is thought to involve abnormal fluid buildup and pressure changes within the inner ear.
5. Otosclerosis: This is a condition in which abnormal bone growth occurs in the middle ear, affecting the function of the tiny bones (ossicles) involved in sound conduction. Tinnitus can be one of the symptoms associated with otosclerosis.
6. Acoustic neuroma: A non-cancerous tumor that develops on the auditory nerve, located between the brain and the inner ear, can exert pressure on the surrounding structures, leading to hearing loss, balance problems, and tinnitus.
7. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: Dysfunction or misalignment of the jaw joint, also known as TMJ disorders, can cause tinnitus in some individuals.
8. Certain medications: Some drugs, such as certain antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, aspirin in high doses, and some diuretics, can have side effects that include tinnitus. Tinnitus induced by medications usually goes away after stopping the medication, but in some cases, it can be permanent.
9. Cardiovascular conditions: Specific cardiovascular conditions, such as high blood pressure, pulsatile tinnitus (a rhythmic sound that synchronizes with the heartbeat), and certain vascular malformations, can be associated with tinnitus.
10. Neurological conditions: Tinnitus can sometimes be a symptom of neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, head injury/trauma, or certain brain tumors.
11. Stress and anxiety: Chronic stress and anxiety have been linked to tinnitus. While stress and anxiety do not directly cause tinnitus, they can exacerbate existing tinnitus or make it more noticeable.
12. Other medical conditions: Tinnitus can also be associated with thyroid issues, diabetes, hormonal changes (e.g., during menopause), allergies, or circulatory system disorders.
It's important to note that tinnitus can have multiple contributing factors, and the specific cause may vary from person to person. A healthcare professional, such as an audiologist, otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist), or primary care physician, can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate management strategies for your tinnitus.