Hearing Loss: Tinnitus and Treatment Options for Seniors

Q: Hearing Loss: Tinnitus and Treatment Options for Seniors

Hello, the issues you mentioned could be due to： 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction： This is the most common cause and can occur not only during flying, climbing, or diving, but also when forcefully blowing your nose or bending over. <br>2) Sudden sensorineural hearing loss. <br>3) O

Auditory degeneration

Hello Dr.
Chi, I often hear a ringing sound in my ears that resembles "shaking" when I turn my head.
Is this a sign of hearing deterioration? Can this be improved? I have heard that eardrum injections can be used.
Is it possible for an 83-year-old to undergo eardrum injection to address this issue? Thank you for your response and assistance.

Xia Fei, 80~89 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/21

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, the issues you mentioned could be due to: 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction: This is the most common cause and can occur not only during flying, climbing, 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 ear discharge.
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 unclean water or improper ear cleaning.
All of the above conditions can be appropriately treated with medication after consulting a physician.
If you have already undergone pure tone audiometry (which requires headphones in a soundproof booth, where sounds are presented and you respond 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 pure tone audiometry, it is advisable to visit a hospital for an examination to rule out sudden hearing loss.
The golden treatment window for sudden sensorineural hearing loss is two weeks, and early treatment yields better outcomes.
Intratympanic steroid injection is one of the gold standard treatments for sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
It is recommended to first consult an otolaryngologist for a definitive diagnosis before proceeding with treatment.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chi Chao-Yun, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2020/10/21

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding tinnitus and hearing loss, especially in the context of aging. Tinnitus, often described as a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears, can be particularly distressing for seniors. It is important to understand that tinnitus is not a condition itself but rather a symptom that can arise from various underlying issues, including hearing loss, exposure to loud noises, ear infections, or even certain medications.

In your case, the "shaking" sound you hear when turning your head could be related to changes in your inner ear or auditory system, which are common as we age. Age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, typically affects the ability to hear high-frequency sounds and can lead to a decline in overall hearing ability. This decline can also contribute to the perception of tinnitus.

Regarding treatment options, there are several approaches to managing tinnitus, especially for seniors. Here are some common strategies:
1. Hearing Aids: If hearing loss is present, using hearing aids can significantly help. They amplify external sounds, which can mask the tinnitus and make it less noticeable.

2. Sound Therapy: This involves using background noise or white noise machines to help distract from the tinnitus. Many people find relief by listening to calming sounds, such as ocean waves or soft music.

3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This psychological approach helps individuals manage the emotional response to tinnitus. It can reduce anxiety and improve coping strategies.

4. Medications: While there is no specific medication for tinnitus, some drugs can help alleviate symptoms or address underlying conditions. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

5. Lifestyle Changes: Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, managing stress, and ensuring good sleep hygiene can also help manage tinnitus symptoms.

As for the use of ear injections, this is typically reserved for specific conditions, such as Meniere's disease or sudden sensorineural hearing loss. The effectiveness of such treatments can vary, and they may not be appropriate for all patients, especially seniors. Given your age of 83, it is crucial to discuss the risks and benefits of any invasive procedure with your healthcare provider. They will consider your overall health, medical history, and the potential for complications.

In conclusion, while tinnitus can be a challenging condition, there are various management strategies available. It is essential to work closely with an audiologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist to determine the best course of action tailored to your specific situation. Regular follow-ups and assessments can help monitor your hearing health and adjust treatment plans as necessary. Remember, you are not alone in this, and many resources are available to help you cope with tinnitus and hearing loss.

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