How to Identify Symptoms of Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a medical term that describes a constant buzzing or ringing in one or both ears. The condition afflicts adults and children and is often caused by some prior damage to the ears. Tinnitus will not lead to deafness. Ongoing bouts of tinnitus may be treated through tinnitus retraining therapy, or it may resolve itself over time. While it can be extremely frustrating, learning to identify symptoms of tinnitus may help doctors to find an underlying cause of the condition and help the individual cope with the problem. Some adapt to the constant sounds in their ear, while others may need some type of behavioral therapy to help increase daily functions and attitudes while dealing with the condition.

Instructions

Ringing in the Ears

• 1

  Ringing in the ears may be heard as soft or loud, or accompanied by other sounds such as whistling, roaring or hissing.

• 2

  Experiencing the sounds in cadence with the heartbeat is also common. The ringing or buzzing may be louder with each beat of the heart, leading to a synchronized pattern that matches the pulse in an 'on-off' type sensation.

• 3

  Buildup of or blockage caused by ear wax often makes the sounds more audible. So does extremely loud noises and, in some cases, allergies.

• 4

  Elevation of blood pressure often produces a heightened awareness of the roaring or buzzing in the ears experienced with tinnitus, as can certain drugs such as antibiotics and diuretics.