Ringing in the Ears:
When to See an ENT in Augusta, GA

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is characterized by a persistent or intermittent perception of sound without an external source. Tinnitus itself is not a disease, but rather a symptom of another underlying medical condition; it has been reported to affect many individuals across different age groups. However, older adults are at higher risk of developing tinnitus.

While most individuals with tinnitus described what they hear as a ringing sound, others may describe it differently. Some people may hear a clicking, buzzing, humming, hissing, rushing, or roaring sound.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Tinnitus?

The symptoms of tinnitus vary significantly from one individual to another. Tinnitus is often described as a persistent or intermittent ringing, buzzing, clicking, humming, hissing, rushing, or roaring sound in the ears without a clear external source.

Some cases of tinnitus can be so mild that they are barely noticeable, while other cases can be so loud that they impact hearing abilities, daily productivity, concentration, and sleep.

There are two main types of tinnitus: subjective tinnitus and objective tinnitus.

Subjective tinnitus is the more common type and means that only the individual can hear the sound. A rarer form of tinnitus is objective tinnitus, which may be linked to an identifiable underlying cause and may sometimes be detected during medical evaluation.

What Causes Tinnitus?

In most cases, the exact cause of tinnitus is difficult to identify. However, it can be associated with a variety of conditions, such as:

• Ear infections
• Hearing loss
• Wax or fluid buildup in the ears
• Noise-induced hearing loss
• Head or neck injuries
• Certain medications taken at high dosages

Some less common risk factors for tinnitus also include:

• Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD)
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
• Meniere’s disease
• Blood vessel conditions
• Head and neck tumors
• Bone changes in the middle ear
• Muscle spasms in the inner ear
• Autoimmune disorders (such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis)
• Pre-existing medical conditions (such as diabetes, migraines, or anemia)

How Is Tinnitus Diagnosed?

If you’re noticing changes in your ear or hearing health, a medical evaluation with your primary care physician may be an appropriate initial step. They can check for any wax or fluid buildup in the ears, as well as a potential case of an ear infection, which might be affecting your ears or hearing. They will also ask about your symptoms, how long you’ve had them, and your medical history.

Based on your clinical findings, they may refer you to an otolaryngologist, also known as an ENT, if your case needs more evaluation of your ears, head, and neck.

In some cases, you may also be referred to an audiologist or a hearing and balance disorders specialist for further hearing evaluation.

Depending on clinical findings and your symptoms, additional tests that may be ordered to aid in diagnosis include imaging tests (such as MRI and CT scans), lab tests, movement tests, and hearing or audiological exams.

Tinnitus Treatment in Augusta, GA

There is no standard treatment for tinnitus. The appropriate treatment options and management strategies will depend on a variety of individual factors, such as the severity of the issue and the potential underlying cause.

Tinnitus treatment options may include:

• Removal of wax or fluid buildup in the ears
• Hearing aids
• White noise machines
• Masking devices (which are worn like hearing aids and produce continuous low-level white noise)
• Changes in medication
• Treatment for blood vessel conditions
• Tinnitus education
• Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT)
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Cochlear implants (for carefully selected patients with severe hearing loss)

Commonly Asked Questions About Tinnitus

What is the best treatment for tinnitus in Augusta, GA?

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for tinnitus. The appropriate treatment option will vary depending on clinical findings, severity of the issue, and other individual factors. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized testing, diagnosis, and treatment.

Can I prevent tinnitus?

Tinnitus isn’t always preventable, especially if it stems from another underlying medical condition.

However, certain healthy habits may help reduce the risk of tinnitus and support overall ear and hearing health in some individuals, such as:

• Wearing earplugs to protect the ears from excessively loud noises (such as at work environments, festivals, or concerts)
• Avoiding prolonged exposure to loud noises
• Limit alcohol, caffeine, or nicotine intake
• Turn down the volume when watching TV or listening to music

When should I see an ENT specialist for tinnitus?

Consider scheduling an appointment with an otolaryngologist in Augusta, GA, if you are experiencing the following symptoms:

• A persistent or intermittent ringing, clicking, buzzing, hissing, rushing, or roaring sound in the ears
• Recurring ear infections
• Hearing loss or difficulties
• Dizziness
• Vertigo
• Issues with balance

Conclusion: Tinnitus and Your Treatment Options in Augusta, GA

Augusta Breathe Free provides ear, nose, and throat care services in Augusta and the nearby communities. Those interested in learning more can explore additional information about ENT care and services on our website.