Tinnitus After Fever: When to Seek Medical Advice

Q: Tinnitus After Fever: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello Ms. <br>Li, <br>The issues you mentioned may be due to： 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction： This is the most common cause and can occur not only during flying, hiking, or diving, but also when forcefully blowing your nose or bending over. <br>2) Sudden sensorineural hearing los

Tinnitus following a fever?

Hello, doctor! Two weeks ago, I went to the hospital to have a conjunctival stone removed, and afterwards, I developed a fever.
During the fever, I experienced loud tinnitus.
After taking a nap, I felt somewhat better, and the tinnitus was not as pronounced.
I then saw a doctor and took doxycycline for seven days.
Now, I still have tinnitus, but it is not as loud as it was during the fever.
Doctor, I don't have any ear fullness or pain; I just clearly hear the tinnitus.
What could be the issue, and should I get it checked?

Ms. Li, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/07

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello Ms.
Li,
The issues you mentioned may be due to: 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction: This is the most common cause and can occur not only during flying, hiking, or diving, but also when forcefully blowing your nose or bending over.
2) Sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
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 discharge from the ear.
b) Chronic otitis media with acute exacerbation: This usually occurs when there is a pre-existing perforation in the eardrum, which can become inflamed due to contaminated water or improper ear cleaning.

All of the above conditions can be appropriately managed with medication after consulting a healthcare provider.
If you have already undergone a pure tone audiometry test (which requires headphones in a soundproof booth, where you respond to sounds by pressing a button, rather than just using a tuning fork), and it has been confirmed that you do not have sudden sensorineural hearing loss, then medication may suffice.
However, if you have not had a pure tone audiometry test, I recommend visiting a hospital for an examination to rule out sudden hearing loss.
The optimal treatment window for sudden sensorineural hearing loss is within two weeks, and early treatment yields better results.
Therefore, if your symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist.

Wishing you health and safety,
Dr.
Chi Chao-yun,
Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2017/05/07

More Info

Tinnitus, commonly referred to as ringing in the ears, can be a perplexing and distressing condition, particularly when it follows an illness such as a fever. In your case, it appears that the tinnitus began after experiencing a fever related to a medical procedure. While it is not uncommon for tinnitus to occur after an illness, especially one that involves fever, it is essential to understand the potential underlying causes and when to seek further medical advice.

Tinnitus can arise from various factors, including exposure to loud noises, ear infections, earwax buildup, and even certain medications. In your situation, the fever and subsequent treatment with doxycycline may have contributed to the onset of tinnitus. Doxycycline is an antibiotic that, while generally safe, can have side effects, including potential effects on hearing in rare cases. However, it is crucial to note that the relationship between fever, the medication, and the development of tinnitus is not straightforward and may involve multiple factors.

Given that your tinnitus has persisted even after the fever has resolved, it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Duration and Severity: Tinnitus that lasts for more than a few days, especially if it is bothersome or affecting your quality of life, warrants further investigation. While some cases of tinnitus may resolve on their own, persistent symptoms should be evaluated.

2. Associated Symptoms: Although you mentioned that you do not have ear pain or a feeling of fullness in the ear, it is essential to monitor for any new symptoms. If you experience hearing loss, dizziness, or any other unusual symptoms, you should seek medical attention promptly.

3. Audiological Evaluation: An audiologist can perform a hearing test to assess your hearing ability and determine if there is any underlying auditory issue contributing to your tinnitus. This evaluation can help rule out conditions such as hearing loss or damage to the auditory system.

4. ENT Consultation: An Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your ear health. They can examine your ears for any signs of infection, fluid buildup, or other abnormalities that may be causing or exacerbating your tinnitus.

5. Management Options: If tinnitus is diagnosed, various management strategies may be available. These can include sound therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and lifestyle modifications to help reduce the perception of tinnitus and improve your overall well-being.

6. Monitoring and Follow-Up: Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in the intensity or nature of the tinnitus. Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider can help ensure that any underlying issues are addressed and that you receive appropriate care.

In summary, while tinnitus following a fever can be a temporary condition, persistent symptoms should not be ignored. Seeking medical advice from an ENT specialist or an audiologist is a prudent step to ensure that any underlying issues are identified and managed appropriately. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life.

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