Tinnitus refers to the perception of sound without an external acoustic source. Most people have experienced tinnitus of varying degrees. While transient tinnitus subsides quickly, persistent tinnitus may interfere with daily life and can be a symptom of other body conditions. What causes tinnitus? What can we do with tinnitus?

What is Tinnitus?

According to the Department of Health, one out of five adults has experienced some extent of tinnitus and 5% are annoyed by tinnitus. About 13% of children and teenagers have tinnitus but only 2-3% are annoyed.

Tinnitus refers to transient or persistent ringing, high-pitched squeal or buzzing in one or both ears. It can be a symptom of an ear injury or other body conditions, such as an abnormality of the auditory nervous system, an infection of the ear canal, or a head injury. If tinnitus persists for more than 5 minutes and does not subside, you should seek medical attention from an ENT doctor.

Treatments for Tinnitus

The ENT doctor will examine your ears, head and neck to look for possible causes of tinnitus through hearing, movement, and imaging tests. Common treatments for tinnitus include:

Taking oral medication such as antibiotics, antidepressants, aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs to improve blood flow to the cochlea.

Doing muscle relaxation exercises to regulate muscles and blood circulation.

Using hearing aids to reduce the symptoms of tinnitus

Clearing ear wax to reduce the symptoms of tinnitus

Conducting cognitive behavioural therapy to improve the anxiety or depression about tinnitus by changing the patient’s reception of it

How to Prevent Tinnitus?

Loud noise may cause tinnitus. Avoid staying too long in noisy places. Protect your ears from sources of loud noises (e.g. construction sites or road repair) by covering both ears with your hands.

When using earphones, keep the volume at no more than 60% of the maximum output. If you need to use the headset for a long time, adjust the volume to medium/ low (50% or below), let your ears rest regularly, and avoid prolonged use. In addition, getting enough sleep, avoiding mood swings and maintaining good habits can help prevent tinnitus.