Persistent Hmm Sound in Right Ear: Causes and Solutions - Otolaryngology

More Info

---

The persistent "Hmm" sound in your mother's right ear, which has been ongoing for at least one to two weeks, can be concerning, especially given her age and the accompanying symptoms. Based on the information provided, there are several potential causes and considerations that may help clarify the situation.

Firstly, the sound your mother is experiencing could be a form of tinnitus, which is often described as a ringing, buzzing, or humming sound in the ears. Tinnitus can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to loud noises, earwax buildup, age-related hearing loss, or underlying medical conditions. Given that your mother is approaching 60, age-related changes in hearing could be a contributing factor. It's also worth noting that hormonal changes associated with menopause can affect auditory perception and may exacerbate existing conditions.

The fact that the sound is more pronounced at night when the environment is quieter is typical for tinnitus, as external noise can mask the internal sounds. The doctor’s suggestion that "fire" or stress could be contributing to her symptoms is also valid; stress and anxiety can worsen tinnitus symptoms. The medications prescribed, such as ginkgo biloba, are often used to improve blood circulation and may help alleviate some symptoms, although scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness for tinnitus is mixed.

Given that the doctor found no apparent issues with the ear during the examination, it may be beneficial to consider a few additional steps:
1. Follow-Up with an Audiologist: Since your mother is experiencing a slight decrease in hearing clarity in her right ear compared to the left, it would be prudent to have a comprehensive hearing evaluation conducted by an audiologist. This can help determine if there is any underlying hearing loss that may be contributing to her symptoms.

2. Consider an ENT Specialist: If the tinnitus persists or worsens, or if there are any changes in her hearing, it would be advisable to consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform more detailed examinations, including tympanometry to assess middle ear function and possibly imaging studies if necessary.

3. Explore Other Factors: Since the doctor mentioned the possibility of menopause-related symptoms, consulting with a gynecologist may also be beneficial. They can provide insights into how hormonal changes might be affecting her overall health and well-being, including her auditory symptoms.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Encourage your mother to manage stress through relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, which may help reduce the perception of tinnitus. Additionally, ensuring she has a good sleep routine can also be beneficial, as poor sleep can exacerbate tinnitus.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of her symptoms, noting when they occur, their intensity, and any potential triggers. This information can be valuable for healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing her condition.

In conclusion, while the initial examination did not reveal any immediate issues, the persistence of the "Hmm" sound warrants further investigation. A multidisciplinary approach involving both ENT specialists and gynecologists may provide a comprehensive understanding of her symptoms and lead to effective management strategies. It's essential to address both the auditory symptoms and any potential hormonal or stress-related factors to improve her quality of life.