Dr. Jane Kukula, AuD I have a noise in my ear. What is it?

A:Hearing sounds in your ear is called tinnitus. The Better Hearing Institute defines tinnitus as “the perception of a sound that has no external source.” The noise can take on several forms. Some people report ringing, humming, buzzing, clicking, and cricketlike sounds. At times tinnitus may be a combination of sounds or sounds that change in pitch or loudness. It can be constant or intermittent, in one ear, both ears, and/or in the head. Occasionally people with tinnitus hear music, singing, or voices. This differs from someone with a mental illness and may experience hallucinations. With tinnitus, there is neural activity in the brain causing the phenomena. There are many causes and sometimes we are unable to find the reason. The most common causes include hearing loss and exposure to loud sounds. Sometimes it presents following a head injury, or stroke or can be a side effect of a medication and sometimes it is as simple as ear wax on the eardrum. While there is typically no “cure” for tinnitus there are ways to manage it. For most people, sound therapy can be an effective way of managing it. Since tinnitus usually presents with hearing loss, hearing aids can often be used as a tool for sound therapy. Start with a hearing evaluation and tinnitus assessment. From there we determine the most appropriate plan of action for you and your tinnitus. Call 440-205-8848 for an appointment. Life Sounds Great! Enjoy Every Moment.

The Hearing Center Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Avenue Mentor, 44060 440-205-8848