Ringing in the Ears: Causes and How to Treat It

By: dr. Iman Pradana M., Sp.THT-KL

Do you suddenly experience ringing, hissing, or a persistent "whirring" sound in your ears? This condition is known as tinnitus. Tinnitus is not a disease, but rather a symptom that can arise from various disorders of the ear or auditory system. The sound can be ringing, whistling, rumbling, or hissing, even though there is no external source.

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the sensation of hearing a ringing, hissing, buzzing, or roaring sound in the ear without any external source. It is not a disease, but rather a symptom of other conditions such as hearing loss, ear injury, blood vessel disorders, or certain medical conditions.

Causes of Ringing in the Ears

• Earwax buildup
• Exposure to loud noises
• Hearing loss
• Ear infections
• Side effects of certain medications
• Blood vessel disorders

Symptoms Accompanying Tinnitus

In addition to ringing, tinnitus can also be accompanied by several other symptoms, such as:

• Hearing loss
• Feeling of fullness or blockage in the ears
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sleep disturbances.

How to Treat Ringing Ears

• Having earwax removed by a medical professional if necessary
• Avoiding exposure to loud noises
• Stress management
• Sound therapy
• Treatment from a doctor

Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, is a common complaint experienced by many people. This condition can be caused by various factors, ranging from earwax buildup, exposure to loud noises, to hearing loss.

While often harmless, tinnitus that persists or interferes with daily activities should be examined by an ENT doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

FAQ

Can tinnitus resolve on its own?
In some cases, tinnitus can resolve on its own, especially if it is caused by exposure to loud noises, an ear infection, or earwax blockage.

Is tinnitus dangerous?
Most tinnitus is harmless, but it can be a sign of a problem with the ear or auditory system.

Can using earphones cause tinnitus?
Yes, using earphones at excessively high volumes for extended periods can risk damaging the auditory nerve and trigger tinnitus.
 

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