Cerebral sound? Tinnitus?
Hello doctor, I previously experienced tinnitus and a feeling of ear fullness in February.
After undergoing examinations, everything was normal.
After two months of distress, the ear fullness and tinnitus resolved.
However, now I notice a buzzing sound in my head every time I lie down to sleep.
The sound varies in intensity but only occurs when I am lying down; it does not happen when I am standing or active.
This has been going on for four months, and I am really struggling with it.
I am unsure which specialist to consult and whether this could be what is referred to online as "head noise." Please provide a detailed response.
Thank you.
Liu Xiaojie, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/31
Dr. Hong Weibin reply Neurology
Hello: Based on your condition, you may seek assistance from a neurologist and an otolaryngologist.
It is possible that hearing deterioration is the cause, and examinations can be conducted to confirm this.
Reply Date: 2021/05/31
More Info
Hello! Thank you for your question regarding the buzzing sound in your head, especially when lying down to sleep. It sounds like you are experiencing a phenomenon that can be quite distressing, and I understand your concern.
Based on your description, it seems that you are dealing with a type of auditory perception that could be related to tinnitus, which is often described as a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears or head. Tinnitus can manifest in various ways, including the symptoms you mentioned, such as the sound being more pronounced when you are lying down.
Tinnitus can have many underlying causes, including exposure to loud noises, ear infections, earwax buildup, age-related hearing loss, and even certain medications. In your case, since you mentioned that previous examinations were normal and you experienced ear ringing (tinnitus) earlier, it is possible that the buzzing sound you are now experiencing is a continuation or a new manifestation of tinnitus.
However, it is also important to consider other potential causes for the buzzing sound in your head. For instance, some individuals report experiencing a sensation known as "brain buzzing" or "head buzzing," which can be related to various factors, including anxiety, stress, or even changes in blood flow when lying down. In some cases, this sensation may be linked to neurological conditions, although these are less common.
Given that your symptoms have persisted for four months, I recommend that you consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in ear, nose, and throat (ENT) disorders, or an audiologist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including hearing tests and possibly imaging studies, to rule out any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Additionally, if you are experiencing significant distress or anxiety related to these symptoms, it may be beneficial to speak with a mental health professional. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate tinnitus and other auditory perceptions, and addressing these factors can sometimes lead to improvement in symptoms.
In summary, while your symptoms may be indicative of tinnitus, it is crucial to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a specialist to determine the exact cause and appropriate management. Treatments for tinnitus can vary widely, ranging from sound therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to medications in some cases.
I hope this information helps you understand your situation better, and I encourage you to seek medical advice to address your concerns. Take care!
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