Tinnitus Ringing in the Ear

Tinnitus is defined medically as a constant ringing sound in the ear, when there is no source for the sound. Tinnitus can be a soft ringing in the ear, humming, echoing of sounds or the sound of the “ocean” (as you hear in a seashell).

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is known as hearing sounds without a source, or a distortion of sounds a person is hearing. Tinnitus can be a constant ringing, a humming sound or sounds of the ocean. It can also be felt by a distortion of sounds - echoing, changes of tone and also hearing close sounds as if they are remote (which is probably a mild hearing loss).

Why it happens

Tinnitus is considered a symptom of another problem. The source of the sounds one is hearing without an external source is unknown, but it is related to several other conditions - ear infections, wax or foreign objects in the ear, hearing loss (due to loud noises or ear trauma) and sometimes Meniere’s disease.

Smoking, Caffeine, alcohol and antibiotics can also cause Tinnitus in some cases.

Although there is no explanation for Tinnitus, there are several treatment courses which can be advised by a doctor.

Possible cures for Tinnitus

Tinnitus can be treated at home by several ways, all aimed at masking the Tinnitus and not actually treating it. The best way to treat Tinnitus is consulting with an ENT who will evaluate the source of the Tinnitus (since it is a symptom of other conditions). To treat Tinnitus at home you can try the following:

• One way to “mask” the Tinnitus so it will not be felt at all times is listening to music (not too loud), or focusing on other sounds such as ticking clocks, white noises (there are some mobile applications who offer this) and even environmental sounds (traffic, voices, etc.)
• Tinnitus is often heard when everything else is quiet, a situation usually met when going to bed. To get some relief from the Tinnitus use white noises, or place a humidifier/fan close to the bed. the humming sound from the electric machine may bring some relief.
• Learn to relax. Tinnitus is sometimes worsened by stress. To relief stress, try meditating or sports activities. relieving the stress is the simplest way to relieve Tinnitus.
• avoid smoking, Alcohol and drugs - these substances often cause the body to be weaker, which in turn causes a condition which Tinnitus is a symptom of it.
• Ear plugs may help if there is a distortion of surrounding sounds. In other cases, it may cause a person to focus on the Tinnitus. However, If the Tinnitus is caused by loud noises (at work, at a club, etc.) the use of ear plugs can relieve the Tinnitus over time.

Does Eardoc help Tinnitus?

Though the Eardoc was not tested for Tinnitus, we have received some feedback from our clients that it has helped them. You can see one testimonial right here:

Does Tinnitus require medical attention?

First of all, YES. Second of all, use judgment. If the Tinnitus started after a head injury, trauma or some other unnatural cause - you need medical care. If the Tinnitus is accompanied by other symptoms - Dizziness, imbalance, nausea - go to the doctor as soon as you can.

If the tinnitus is felt for a long period of time, and it is apparent all the time, you should visit a medical professional. An ENT and even a GP can advise and inspect the situation.