Tinnitus and Its Connection to Shingles: A Patient's Journey

Tinnitus and herpes issues?

Hello Dr.
Liao, I have been experiencing tinnitus for over six months.
In addition to the tinnitus, I often feel a tingling sensation in the nerves around my spine.
I visited an ENT specialist in December last year, and the doctor said that all my tests came back normal, but I still have unexplained tinnitus.
During the winter, when the weather is cool or cold, the tinnitus sometimes fluctuates in volume; however, in hot weather like now, the tinnitus is quite loud and persistent, occurring 24 hours a day.
Even with a fan or air conditioning on, I can still hear the tinnitus.
My tinnitus is unilateral, affecting my left ear, and it sometimes accompanies a sensation of pulsating in my head.
The sounds I hear are like a ringing, static noise, similar to a poorly tuned radio, and sharp, piercing sounds.

I had various tests arranged by the ENT doctor, including middle ear analysis, auditory transmission, and pure tone audiometry.
At the end of December last year, another traditional Chinese medicine doctor suggested that I see a neurologist to rule out any significant organ issues that might not respond well to traditional Chinese treatment.
He mentioned that tinnitus could be related to the auditory nerve, which is a branch of the cranial nerves, and that any pathology or compression of the nerve could lead to symptoms.
Various neurological symptoms can be evaluated by a neurologist.

I started experiencing tinnitus after the National Day holiday in October last year.
Two months later, during winter, I began to feel unwell, experiencing fatigue, tiredness, and once had a headache, fever, and muscle weakness, along with a loss of appetite.
Before the Lunar New Year this year, I developed shingles.
However, last month, when the weather got warmer, my overall fatigue and tiredness gradually improved, but the tinnitus became increasingly louder.

When I first experienced tinnitus, I consulted a traditional Chinese medicine doctor who suggested that my tinnitus was caused by weakened cranial nerves.
He prescribed herbal medicine for five days, but after finishing the medication, I did not return to see him or continue taking his herbs, as I was skeptical about the connection between weakened cranial nerves and tinnitus.
I later visited another traditional Chinese medicine clinic, where the head physician recommended that I see an ENT specialist for further examination.
The results showed that everything was normal, and the ENT doctor initially wanted to prescribe medication, but I refused, as I prefer not to take Western medicine due to its side effects.
The doctor suggested that poor cerebral blood circulation might be causing the tinnitus and indicated that he would prescribe medication for the auditory nerve, sedatives, or vitamin B complex to nourish the nerves, hoping that the tinnitus would gradually decrease in volume.
I told the doctor that I did not need any medication and preferred to stick to traditional Chinese medicine.
Dr.
Liao, do I need to undergo further tests to identify the underlying issue? What specific tests should I consider? On the afternoon of May 5th, I experienced severe headaches at the Qiaotou Sugar Factory, and later that evening, I felt nauseous, vomited, and experienced overall discomfort.

Buju Ming Anonymouser, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/08

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, regarding tinnitus, it is a symptom that is not easy to diagnose.
It is advisable to follow up with an otolaryngologist for appropriate treatment and to maintain a regular routine, engage in proper exercise, and ensure a balanced diet.
Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2024/05/08

More Info

Tinnitus, commonly referred to as "ringing in the ears," can be a perplexing and distressing condition for many individuals. Your experience of persistent tinnitus for over six months, coupled with neurological symptoms such as back pain and numbness, highlights the complexity of your situation. It is essential to understand the potential connections between tinnitus and other health issues, including shingles, which you mentioned experiencing earlier this year.

Tinnitus can arise from various causes, including exposure to loud noises, ear infections, age-related hearing loss, and even certain medications. In your case, the onset of tinnitus following a period of stress and subsequent health issues, including shingles, suggests that there may be a neurological component involved. Shingles, caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, can lead to complications such as postherpetic neuralgia, which may affect the auditory pathways and contribute to tinnitus.

The fact that your tinnitus fluctuates with temperature changes and is accompanied by a sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear could indicate that it is related to changes in blood flow or nerve function. The auditory system is closely linked to the nervous system, and any disruption in nerve function can manifest as tinnitus. Your description of the tinnitus as a sharp, piercing sound, along with the sensation of "brain noise," further emphasizes the need for a thorough neurological evaluation.

Given that you have already undergone various ear examinations, including tympanometry and audiometry, it may be beneficial to pursue further neurological assessments. A consultation with a neurologist could help rule out any underlying conditions affecting the auditory nerve or central nervous system. Tests such as MRI or CT scans may be warranted to visualize any structural abnormalities or nerve compression that could be contributing to your symptoms.

Regarding your concerns about medication, it is understandable to be cautious about the side effects of Western medicine. However, it is crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the risks. Medications that target nerve health, such as certain vitamins (like B12) or medications that improve blood flow, may help alleviate your symptoms. If you are hesitant to take prescribed medications, consider discussing alternative treatments with your healthcare provider, including dietary changes, acupuncture, or cognitive behavioral therapy, which can be effective in managing tinnitus.

In terms of lifestyle modifications, managing stress is vital, as stress can exacerbate tinnitus. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and gentle exercise may help reduce anxiety and improve your overall well-being. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated can support your nervous system and overall health.

In conclusion, while your tinnitus may be multifactorial, it is essential to continue seeking answers and exploring treatment options. A collaborative approach involving both Western and traditional medicine may provide the best outcomes. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare providers are crucial to monitor your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan as necessary. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you manage your tinnitus effectively.

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