Tinnitus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Tinnitus persists?

Hello doctor, for the past few weeks, I have been hearing a sound like "ee ee ee" in both ears when no one is talking to me.
This used to happen only late at night when everyone was asleep, but now it occurs whenever I am alone, even during the daytime.
For instance, right now, it's bright outside, and there are various sounds like cars, birds chirping, and people talking, but since I am in my room alone, I can still hear the "ee ee ee" sound, which is quite bothersome.
If I watch a movie or listen to music, I don't notice it, but it still troubles me.
Do I need treatment for this? Could it be a sign of a serious illness?
I also experienced itching in my ears for a period of time (which lasted a few months, with occasional itching lasting two to three days).
The itching was internal and hard to reach; I could only feel relief when I washed my face and used the motion to create a sensation.
Could this be related? I'm very worried.
I know that my previous methods might have harmed my ears, and since then, I have been too afraid to use them.
The itching has stopped recently, but the "ee ee ee" sound persists.
What should I do?

gongn, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/01/30

Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology

Tinnitus is a common symptom with many potential causes, including sudden sensorineural hearing loss, eustachian tube obstruction, otitis media, and inner ear disorders, among others.
The causes vary, but it is often perceived in quieter environments.
Some individuals may experience subjective tinnitus, which is common and not necessarily pathological.
However, if you consistently hear it in different environments, it may be time to seek help.
You can start with a basic examination at an otolaryngology clinic to rule out possible conditions.
If issues persist, you can then go to a larger hospital for a more detailed evaluation.
Many early-stage brain disorders have been detected this way.

Reply Date: 2012/01/30

More Info

Tinnitus, often described as a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears, can be a perplexing and distressing condition. It appears that you are experiencing a form of tinnitus characterized by a persistent sound ("依依依依") that occurs in quiet environments. This condition can arise from various causes and can significantly impact one's quality of life.

Causes of Tinnitus
Tinnitus can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
1. Hearing Loss: Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) is one of the most common causes of tinnitus. As we age, the sensory cells in the inner ear can become damaged, leading to both hearing loss and tinnitus.

2. Exposure to Loud Noises: Prolonged exposure to loud sounds can damage the hair cells in the cochlea, leading to tinnitus. This could include exposure to machinery, concerts, or even loud music through headphones.

3. Ear Infections or Blockages: Conditions such as earwax buildup, middle ear infections, or Eustachian tube dysfunction can lead to tinnitus. The itching you experienced in your ear may suggest a previous ear issue, but since it has resolved, it may not be directly related to your current symptoms.

4. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as Meniere's disease, acoustic neuroma, or vascular disorders, can also cause tinnitus.
5. Medications: Some medications, particularly certain antibiotics, cancer treatments, and high doses of aspirin, can cause or worsen tinnitus.

Symptoms of Tinnitus
The primary symptom of tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. This can vary in pitch and intensity and may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
- Hearing loss
- A feeling of fullness in the ear
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping due to the noise

Treatment Options
While there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for tinnitus, several approaches can help manage the condition:
1. Hearing Aids: If hearing loss is present, hearing aids can amplify external sounds, which may help mask the tinnitus.

2. Sound Therapy: This involves using background noise or white noise to help mask the tinnitus sounds. Listening to music or nature sounds can also be beneficial.

3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This psychological approach can help you manage the emotional response to tinnitus, reducing anxiety and distress.

4. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT): This combines sound therapy with counseling to help you habituate to the tinnitus sounds.

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

When to Seek Treatment
Given that your tinnitus has become more noticeable and is causing you distress, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional, preferably an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or an audiologist. They can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of your tinnitus and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Conclusion
Tinnitus can be a challenging condition, but understanding its causes and treatment options can empower you to manage it effectively. While it can be concerning, especially with the changes you've noticed, many people with tinnitus find relief through various strategies. It's essential to address your concerns with a healthcare provider to ensure that you receive the appropriate care and support.

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