Tinnitus: My Mother-in-Law's Experience with Ear Buzzing

My mother-in-law has a ringing sound in her head above the left ear?

Hello, my mother-in-law is in her early sixties and is generally healthy, but she has been troubled by a problem lately.
She experiences a ringing sound, similar to cicadas, above her left ear multiple times a day, lasting a few seconds each time, and it is more pronounced at night.
However, she does not have headaches or insomnia, and her blood pressure and heart rate are normal.
She does not feel particularly uncomfortable; it's just that the persistent cicada-like sound is quite strange.
She had similar symptoms in her forties, which resolved after a while, but it has recurred recently.
What could this condition be? What are the possible causes? Are there any ways to improve it? Should she see a doctor or undergo any specific tests? Thank you!

meme, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/07/08

Dr. Jian Huangqi reply Otolaryngology

It is advisable to see an otolaryngologist for examination and treatment of tinnitus.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2006/07/08

More Info

Tinnitus, commonly referred to as "ringing in the ears," can manifest in various forms, including the buzzing or cicada-like sounds your mother-in-law is experiencing. Given her age and the episodic nature of her symptoms, it is important to consider several potential causes and management strategies.

Understanding Tinnitus
Tinnitus is not a disease itself but rather a symptom of an underlying condition. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
1. Hearing Loss: Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) is common in individuals over 60. As the auditory system deteriorates, the brain may interpret the lack of sound input as ringing or buzzing.

2. Noise Exposure: Prolonged exposure to loud noises can damage the hair cells in the inner ear, leading to tinnitus. If your mother-in-law has been exposed to loud environments, this could be a contributing factor.

3. Ear Infections or Blockages: Conditions such as earwax buildup, middle ear infections, or Eustachian tube dysfunction can lead to tinnitus. These conditions can create pressure changes in the ear, resulting in abnormal sound perceptions.

4. Medications: Certain medications, particularly ototoxic drugs (those that can damage the ear), can cause or exacerbate tinnitus. It’s important to review any medications she may be taking.

5. Health Conditions: Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can contribute to tinnitus.
6. Stress and Anxiety: Psychological factors can also play a significant role in the perception of tinnitus. Stress can exacerbate the symptoms, making them more noticeable.

Symptoms and Diagnosis
In your mother-in-law's case, the absence of pain, headaches, or sleep disturbances is a positive sign, but the persistent buzzing sound warrants further investigation. Since she has experienced similar symptoms in the past, it could be a recurring issue related to her auditory system.

To diagnose the underlying cause of her tinnitus, a healthcare provider may recommend:
- Hearing Tests: Audiometric testing can help determine if there is any hearing loss associated with her tinnitus.

- Physical Examination: A thorough examination of the ears, nose, and throat (ENT) can identify any blockages or infections.

- Imaging Studies: In some cases, a CT scan or MRI may be necessary to rule out structural issues or tumors affecting the auditory pathways.

Management Strategies
While there is currently no cure for tinnitus, several management strategies can help alleviate the symptoms:
1. Sound Therapy: Background noise or white noise machines can help mask the tinnitus sounds, making them less noticeable.

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This psychological approach can help individuals cope with the distress caused by tinnitus.

3. Hearing Aids: If hearing loss is present, hearing aids can amplify external sounds, which may help mask the tinnitus.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and ensuring adequate sleep can help improve overall well-being and potentially lessen tinnitus symptoms.

5. Medications: While there are no specific medications for tinnitus, some may help manage associated symptoms like anxiety or depression.

When to See a Doctor
Given that your mother-in-law's symptoms have recurred and are persistent, it would be advisable for her to consult with an ENT specialist. They can conduct a comprehensive evaluation and recommend appropriate tests to determine the cause of her tinnitus. Early intervention can often lead to better management of symptoms and improved quality of life.

In summary, while tinnitus can be a frustrating and perplexing condition, understanding its potential causes and management options can empower your mother-in-law to seek the appropriate care and find relief from her symptoms.

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