Should You See a Neurologist for Tinnitus Lasting 6 Months? - Otolaryngology

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Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be a frustrating and distressing condition, especially when it persists for an extended period, such as six months in your case. Given your history of a recent upper respiratory infection, normal hearing tests, and the presence of sleep apnea, it is understandable that you are concerned about the underlying causes of your tinnitus.

First, it is important to recognize that tinnitus can have various causes, including exposure to loud noises, ear infections, age-related hearing loss, and even certain medications. In your situation, the onset of tinnitus following a respiratory infection could suggest a possible link, although this is not definitive. The sound you describe, similar to a CRT television, is a common type of tinnitus, often referred to as a "high-pitched ringing" or "hissing" sound.

You mentioned that you have already undergone hearing tests and auditory brainstem response (ABR) tests, both of which returned normal results. This is a positive sign, as it indicates that there is no significant damage to your auditory pathways. The medications prescribed, such as ginkgo biloba and vitamins, are often used in attempts to alleviate tinnitus symptoms, although their effectiveness can vary from person to person.

Your concern about the possibility of a brain lesion causing the tinnitus is valid, especially given the persistence of your symptoms. While it is less common for tinnitus to be caused by a brain tumor or other intracranial pathology, it is not impossible. If you are experiencing additional symptoms, such as changes in hearing, balance issues, or neurological symptoms (like headaches or visual disturbances), it would be prudent to seek further evaluation.

Given your ongoing symptoms and the impact they have on your quality of life, seeing a neurologist could be beneficial. A neurologist can perform a comprehensive evaluation, which may include imaging studies such as an MRI or CT scan to rule out any structural abnormalities in the brain that could be contributing to your tinnitus. Additionally, they can assess for other neurological conditions that may be related to your symptoms.

Furthermore, it is essential to address the sleep apnea you mentioned. Sleep disturbances can exacerbate tinnitus and contribute to a cycle of anxiety and stress, which may worsen your perception of the ringing. Treatment for sleep apnea, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, can improve your overall health and potentially reduce the severity of your tinnitus.

In summary, while your initial evaluations have not revealed any significant issues, the persistence of your tinnitus warrants further investigation. Consulting with a neurologist can help ensure that any potential underlying causes are thoroughly explored. Additionally, managing your sleep apnea and addressing any stress or anxiety related to your tinnitus may also provide relief. Remember, tinnitus can be a complex condition, and a multidisciplinary approach involving audiologists, ENT specialists, and neurologists may be the most effective way to manage your symptoms.