Tinnitus: Causes and Solutions for Persistent Ear Noise

Tinnitus issues?

Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing tinnitus for about four months.
It is a faint EEEEE sound that disappears after I wake up, but it starts again around noon and continues until the next morning when it disappears again.
What could be the issue?

Xiao Wu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/09

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, Xiao Wu.
The issues you mentioned could possibly be due to: 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction, 2) degeneration of the inner ear nerves, or 3) otitis media: a) Acute otitis media: often occurs alongside upper respiratory infections (such as colds) and sinusitis, and in severe cases, there may be ear discharge or pus.
b) Chronic otitis media with acute exacerbation: often occurs when there is a pre-existing perforation in the eardrum, which can be caused by unclean water or improper ear cleaning, leading to inflammation.
All of the above conditions can be appropriately treated with medication after consulting a physician.
It is recommended that you undergo a pure tone audiometry test (you will need to wear headphones in a soundproof booth, where sounds will be presented for you to respond to, rather than just using a tuning fork) and other related examinations to identify the cause for treatment.
Wishing you safety and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chi Chao-yun, Head of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/09/09

More Info

Tinnitus, commonly referred to as "ringing in the ears," is a condition characterized by the perception of sound when no external sound is present. It can manifest in various forms, including ringing, buzzing, hissing, or in your case, a persistent "EEEEE" sound. Understanding the underlying causes and potential solutions for tinnitus is essential for managing this condition effectively.

Causes of Tinnitus
1. Hearing Loss: One of the most common causes of tinnitus is age-related hearing loss or noise-induced hearing loss. Damage to the hair cells in the inner ear can lead to abnormal signals being sent to the brain, resulting in the perception of sound.

2. Ear Infections or Blockages: Conditions such as ear infections, fluid in the ear, or earwax buildup can cause pressure changes in the ear, leading to tinnitus.
3. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: The Eustachian tube helps equalize pressure in the ear. If it does not function properly, it can lead to a feeling of fullness in the ear and tinnitus.

4. Ototoxic Medications: Certain medications can damage the inner ear, leading to tinnitus. Common culprits include some antibiotics, diuretics, and chemotherapy drugs.

5. Jaw Issues: Problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can cause ear-related symptoms, including tinnitus. This is particularly relevant if you have a history of jaw pain or discomfort.

6. Stress and Anxiety: Psychological factors can exacerbate tinnitus. Stress and anxiety can heighten the perception of tinnitus, making it more noticeable.

7. Other Health Conditions: Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and thyroid disorders can also contribute to tinnitus.

Your Symptoms
In your case, the intermittent nature of your tinnitus—where it disappears upon waking and reappears around midday—could suggest a few possibilities:
- Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: This could explain the fluctuation in symptoms, especially if you experience changes in pressure or fullness in your ears throughout the day.

- Noise Exposure: If you are exposed to loud environments during the day, this could trigger or exacerbate your tinnitus.

- Stress or Fatigue: If your daily routine is stressful or if you are not getting enough rest, this could also contribute to the variability of your symptoms.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Specialist: Given the duration and persistence of your tinnitus, it is advisable to consult an ENT specialist. They can perform a thorough examination, including hearing tests, to determine the underlying cause.

2. Hearing Aids: If hearing loss is identified, hearing aids can help amplify external sounds, which may mask the tinnitus.

3. Sound Therapy: Background noise or white noise machines can help mask the tinnitus, making it less noticeable.

4. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This psychological approach can help manage the emotional response to tinnitus, reducing the distress it causes.

5. Lifestyle Modifications: Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and ensuring adequate sleep can help alleviate symptoms.

6. Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage tinnitus, especially if it is associated with anxiety or depression.

7. Avoiding Ototoxic Substances: If you are taking medications that may contribute to tinnitus, discuss alternatives with your healthcare provider.

Conclusion
Tinnitus can be a challenging condition to manage, especially when it is persistent and affects daily life. Understanding the potential causes and exploring various treatment options can help you find relief. It is crucial to seek professional medical advice to identify the specific factors contributing to your tinnitus and to develop an appropriate management plan.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Tinnitus and Headaches: Causes and Solutions

I have been experiencing tinnitus for 9 days. On the night of the 16th, it was very difficult to sleep due to the loud noise. I initially planned to ignore it, but over the past 9 days, I have either heard a chirping sound or background noise. In the quiet of the night or in a si...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
If tinnitus persists or is accompanied by changes in hearing, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngology department at a hospital for examination and confirmation.

Persistent Eee Sound in Ear: Causes and Solutions for Relief

Hello Doctor, last September after a shower, water got into my ear. I used a cotton swab to dry it out, but I still felt a blockage and couldn't hear properly. Three days later, the water felt drier, but I started to experience a ringing sound (tinnitus) that persists to thi...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if there are no issues with hearing and the external auditory canal examination shows no abnormalities, tinnitus is often related to stress or anxiety. It is recommended to listen to music as a way to mask the sound or to divert your attention to gradually ignore it. Over ...

Understanding Persistent Tinnitus: Causes and Next Steps for Relief

Hello Doctor, I started experiencing bilateral alternating tinnitus about a week ago, with sounds resembling buzzing or a "E" sound and pressure sounds. Sometimes it lasts all day, while other times it comes and goes, affecting either one ear or both ears alternately. I...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if the appearance and hearing examination in the otolaryngology department are normal, common tinnitus is often related to issues such as stress, emotions, or migraines. It is recommended to start by improving stress and sleep, or to seek assistance from a psychiatrist.

Understanding Ear Noises: Causes and Solutions for Tinnitus

I don't know why my ears keep ringing; it feels really loud. Also, I'm having more difficulty hearing. I don't understand why this is happening since my ears haven't been injured. Can someone tell me what's going on?

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Otolaryngology
Ms. Enoki Mushroom, based on your symptoms of persistent ringing in the ears and decreased hearing, this is generally indicative of auditory nerve degeneration. However, since you are only 25 years old, it is important to consider other factors. For instance, the use of ototoxic ...