Tinnitus, also known as Ringing In Your Ears
According to the CDC, over 50 million Americans experience some form of Tinnitus.
Tinnitus- That wasn’t just the New Year ringing!
Commonly described as the experience of frequent or constant ringing, buzzing, humming, or similar noise in one or both ears, tinnitus is a struggle that more than 45 million Americans live with daily. As a result of damage to the fine hairs in the inner ear, the recurring sounds are caused by the ear’s attempt to make up for the loss of external sound input.
The treatment of tinnitus depends on whether it is the result of an underlying condition. If so, symptoms may be reduced by treating this condition. Examples may include the build-up of earwax, blood vessel conditions, hearing loss, and certain medications.
While often not able to be cured, other treatments to help reduce the symptoms of tinnitus include counseling and medication.
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Tinnitus and COVID-19
Tinnitus, along with other hearing-related issues, has been reported as a common side-effect of COVID-19. An estimated 7.6% of people infected with COVID-19 experienced hearing loss and 14.8% suffered from tinnitus.
According to the American Tinnitus Association, the stress and depression from social isolation associated with COVID-19 may play a role in the population’s experience of tinnitus. Some also experience neurological symptoms that are the result of changes to the nervous system and musculoskeletal system. This may also be an underlying cause of tinnitus or ringing in the ears.
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If you are experiencing what you believe is tinnitus, please schedule a hearing assessment today!
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