Tinnitus is a continuous or pulsating noise in the ear, such as ringing or buzzing, according to the German Foundation for Tinnitus and Hearing Health.
Tinnitus can be caused by various factors, including exposure to loud noises due to the nature of a patient’s work (such as in construction sites) or exposure to a sound shock (such as an explosion), and sudden hearing loss, the foundation explains.
Causes also include ear diseases and infections, such as a patulous Eustachian tube, otosclerosis, perforated eardrum, inner and middle ear infections, and Ménière’s disease.
Additionally, heart and vascular diseases, such as heart valve diseases, as well as psychological stress, can contribute to tinnitus.
When to consult a doctor?
The foundation emphasizes the importance of consulting an Otolaryngologist if tinnitus persists for more than 3 days, to receive the appropriate care.
Treatment options may include medications such as cortisone, hearing devices (in case of hearing loss), physiotherapy, as well as cognitive-behavioural therapy, where patients learn techniques to divert their attention from tinnitus so that they are less aware of it.
