What is the Source of Your Tinnitus, and What are the 8 Causes?

Tinnitus is a common condition characterized by the perception of noise or ringing in the ears. This persistent auditory sensation can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. While tinnitus can have various causes, understanding its source is crucial for effective management and treatment. Vestibular schwannoma is often the key source of tinnitus, but there can also be numerous other causes. In this article, we’ll explore the eight common causes of tinnitus.

Age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, is one of the most prevalent causes of tinnitus. As we age, the structures within the ear, including the cochlea, deteriorate. This can lead to a decrease in hearing sensitivity and the development of tinnitus. Presbycusis-related tinnitus is typically bilateral and often accompanied by high-pitched ringing sounds.

Exposure to loud noises, such as concerts, heavy machinery, or firearms, can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear. This damage can result in both hearing loss and tinnitus. Noise-induced tinnitus often presents as a high-pitched ringing or buzzing sound and can be temporary or permanent, depending on the extent of the damage.

A buildup of earwax can cause blockages within the ear canal, leading to tinnitus. The presence of earwax can interfere with the conduction of sound and create a buzzing or ringing sensation. Fortunately, cerumen impaction-related tinnitus is usually temporary and can be resolved with earwax removal by a healthcare professional.

Certain medications, such as antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and some diuretics, can have tinnitus as a side effect. If you suspect your tinnitus is linked to medication, consult your healthcare provider, who may adjust your prescription or recommend an alternative treatment.

Meniere’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear characterized by recurrent episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus. The exact cause of Meniere’s disease is not well understood, but it is thought to involve abnormal fluid balance in the inner ear. Tinnitus in Meniere’s disease often manifests as a low-frequency roaring or buzzing sound.

Problems with the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jaw to the skull, can lead to tinnitus. The close proximity of the TMJ to the ear can result in referred tinnitus, where the perception of sound originates from the jaw joint rather than the ear itself. Treatment of TMJ disorders can sometimes alleviate tinnitus symptoms.

Tinnitus can also be associated with certain cardiovascular conditions, such as high blood pressure or atherosclerosis. Changes in blood flow can affect the auditory system and lead to tinnitus. In such cases, addressing the underlying cardiovascular issue may help reduce or eliminate tinnitus.

Vestibular schwannoma, also known as an acoustic neuroma, is a benign tumor that develops on the vestibular nerve, which is responsible for balance and hearing. While this condition is relatively rare, it can cause tinnitus as a primary symptom. The tumor’s growth can compress the nearby auditory nerve, leading to tinnitus in one ear. This type of tinnitus is typically unilateral and often accompanied by hearing loss, imbalance, or vertigo.

Vestibular schwannoma-related tinnitus occurs when the tumor exerts pressure on the cochlear or auditory nerve. This disrupts the normal transmission of auditory signals to the brain, resulting in the perception of sound that isn’t present externally. The tinnitus experienced by individuals with vestibular schwannoma can vary in pitch, loudness, and character.

The early detection of vestibular schwannoma is essential, as timely intervention can prevent further growth and potential complications. Diagnosis typically involves audiometric tests, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and clinical evaluation by a neurosurgeon like Dr. Gregory Lekovic. Depending on your unique condition and the location and size of the tumor, Dr. Lekovic may recommend the surgical removal of the tumor or radiation therapy. The goal is to alleviate the symptoms of vestibular schwannoma while preserving hearing.