Ringing in the Ears:
When to See an ENT in Galloway Twp., NJ
Our sense of hearing is one crucial way in which we make sense of the world around us. We use our ears to hear, communicate, and navigate not only the world, but also our relationships with those around us.
Tinnitus is a common issue faced by millions around the world. Apart from the consistent or persistent sound in the ears, it may affect hearing in some individuals. An ENT doctor in Galloway Twp., NJ, can help evaluate your ears and hearing, and recommend management strategies based on clinical findings and personal preferences.
What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is characterized by the persistent or constant perception of sound in the ears without an external source. While most individuals with tinnitus describe their experience as a ringing sound, some may hear it differently and describe it as a clicking, buzzing, humming, hissing, rushing, or roaring sound.
In some cases of tinnitus, the sound can be so soft that it’s barely noticeable, while in other cases, the sound can be so loud that it can interfere with day-to-day life.
Anyone of any age, from children to adults, can be affected by tinnitus. However, it’s most common in older adults. Tinnitus is a common issue that, according to research, affects approximately 10 to 25% of adults worldwide.
What Are the Symptoms of Tinnitus?
Tinnitus symptoms vary per individual, based on the severity of the issue, the potential cause, and a variety of other health factors.
In many cases, individuals with tinnitus describe it as a ringing, clicking, buzzing, humming, rushing, hissing, or roaring sound. Sometimes, the sound can be so loud that it interferes with their ability to hear external sounds, concentrate, or sleep.
There are two main types of tinnitus:
- Subjective tinnitus, in which only the individual can hear the sound.
- Objective tinnitus, in which a physician may also hear the sound using a stethoscope. Objective tinnitus is less common and may be associated with an identifiable underlying cause, and may be further evaluated.
Over time, the persistent sound in the ears can lead to frustration, and in some individuals, may affect their mood and mental health.
What Causes Tinnitus?
In most cases, the exact cause of tinnitus is unidentifiable. However, it can be an associated symptom of other conditions, such as hearing loss, ear infections, earwax buildup, noise-induced hearing loss, head or neck injuries, or certain medications taken at high dosages.
Moreover, there are less common risk factors that may also cause tinnitus as a symptom, including eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD), temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, Meniere’s disease, blood vessel conditions, inner ear muscle spasms, head or neck tumors, middle ear bone changes, autoimmune disorders (such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis), diabetes, migraines, or anemia.
A consultation and evaluation can help determine if further testing is appropriate.
How Is Tinnitus Diagnosed?
To diagnose tinnitus, your healthcare provider will perform a thorough physical examination of your ears to check for earwax buildup or an ear infection. During the consultation, they will also ask about your symptoms and medical history, so be ready to talk about that.
Depending on their clinical findings, they may refer you to an ENT specialist for further evaluation of your ears, head, and neck. They may also make a referral to an audiologist (a hearing loss and balance disorder specialist) if further testing is needed.
Other tests may be conducted and ordered as part of the diagnostic process in select cases. This may include CT and MRI scans, movement tests, laboratory tests, and audiological or hearing tests.
How Is Tinnitus Treated and Managed?
Tinnitus doesn’t have a standard course of treatment. Treatment options and management strategies for tinnitus will vary, depending on the severity of the issue and the potential underlying cause. This may include:
- Earwax and fluid buildup removal
- Hearing aids
- Treatment for blood vessel conditions
- Medication changes
- White noise machines
- Masking devices, which are worn in the ears like hearing aids, produce continuous low-level white noise
- Tinnitus education
- Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT)
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Cochlear implants for carefully selected patients with significant hearing loss
Can tinnitus be cured?
In most cases, tinnitus cannot be cured. However, coping and management strategies may help reduce the impact of the persistent sound in some individuals. A consultation with an ENT specialist can help guide you toward the appropriate treatment and coping strategies.
Can tinnitus be prevented?
Tinnitus can’t always be prevented, particularly if it resulted from an underlying medical condition.
However, some general healthy habits that may help support hearing health and reduce factors that can worsen ear-related symptoms:
- Wear earplugs and earmuffs to protect your ears
- Minimize prolonged exposure to excessively loud sounds
- Eat healthily and exercise regularly
- Limit alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine intake
- When watching TV or listening to music, turn down the volume
Should I See an ENT Specialist in Galloway Twp., NJ, for Tinnitus?
Consider scheduling an appointment to see an ENT doctor in Galloway Twp., NJ, if you experience:
- Persistent ringing, clicking, buzzing, rushing, or humming in your ears
- Hearing loss
- Dizziness
- Vertigo
- Balance issues
Understanding Ringing in the Ears and Tinnitus Treatment Options in Galloway Twp., NJ
Accent Head and Neck provides ENT services to the residents of Galloway Township, Atlantic County, and the surrounding communities. Visit and explore our website for more information about our clinic, services, and specialties.
