Tinnitus Facts and Information

Tinnitus, often described as a ringing or buzzing sound in the ear, is a symptom that can be related to almost every known hearing problem. Tinnitus is not a disease, but it can be caused by exposure to loud sounds, middle or inner ear infections, tumors on the hearing nerve, and even wax on the eardrum.

Sometimes tinnitus can be medically or surgically treated. All patients with tinnitus should consult an ear, nose and throat physician (otolaryngologist) before seeking any other form of treatment.

Dealing with Tinnitus

 Although psychological or emotional problems may be associated with tinnitus, it is a real problem -- not imagined. Almost all patients indicate that stress or tension makes their tinnitus worse. Tinnitus is difficult to describe because there is no standard terminology related to it. Family and friends have trouble understanding the problems tinnitus patients face because they cannot see or hear it themselves. Because tinnitus is so hard to describe and treat, patients may fall victim to self-pity and depression. Some tinnitus patients withdraw from social interactions and push family members and coworkers away--the very people who can help patients cope with the tinnitus problems