Tinnitus can come about because of these unlikely causes.
Tinnitus is an annoying sensation. When it happens for just a few seconds, it is an interesting phenomenon, but if it lasts longer or is chronic, it can be difficult to live with. While there are many ways to cope with tinnitus well, knowing the cause of the tinnitus can help, too. This ringing in the ears can happen because of exposure to loud noises and traumatic brain injuries, but it can also happen because of these six unusual causes.
1. Ear Wax Buildup
For some people, conductive hearing loss can cause tinnitus. Ear wax buildup happens due to a lack of regular ear cleaning, dry ear wax, or both. Generally, ear wax drains out by itself, but it can compact, too. If the tinnitus stops after ear wax cleaning, then that buildup may be the culprit.
2. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
The Eustachian tubes connect the ears to the back of the throat. These airways help regulate middle ear air pressure. If the Eustachian tubes stop working properly for some reason, such as closure or infection from a cold, it’s possible to experience tinnitus as a result!
3. Chronic Illnesses
Chronic illnesses like thyroid disease, lupus, Meniere’s disease, and diabetes can also affect the ear, anywhere from the outer ear to the brain. The ear and its connected parts are very sensitive to changes in the body and can even signal if something is off. Seemingly unrelated illnesses are some of the most unusual causes of tinnitus.
4. Injuries
Injuries to the head or neck can affect the nerves connected to one or both ears. A traumatic brain injury, a problem with the jaw, or a neck problem could affect the auditory nerve or another nerve and cause that ringing or internal high-pitched tone in the ear.
5. Tumors
Tumors, benign or cancerous, can also affect nerves related to your ears and cause tinnitus. Once removed, the tinnitus should stop, along with any other symptoms caused by the tumor.
6. Everyday Noises
Constant exposure to moderate noise levels or repeated exposure to loud sounds can cause hearing loss and tinnitus. Protect your hearing around loud kitchen appliances, hair dryers, and power tools.
Trust the Experts at Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions
Need help with your hearing? Clarity Hearing can help. Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions is an independently owned and operated clinic that focuses on quality of care and personalized, friendly service to the surrounding areas of Ellicott City, Catonsville, Columbia. Our Doctors of Audiology are highly trained with advanced degrees and take the time to provide the personalized care and attention that you need and deserve. We provide advanced hearing aid options that are personally calibrated with cutting-edge digital technology to fit your hearing loss, your unique ear anatomy, and your individual listening needs.
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