7 Common Causes of Tinnitus

By the time U.S. adults reach age 55, one out of 5 is affected by tinnitus, a phantom ringing in the ears that has many possible causes. Not everyone reacts the same way to these causes, and individual cases of tinnitus can be either mild or severe, intermittent or constant. Although this list is not exhaustive, here are seven of the most common causes of tinnitus.

1. Prolonged exposure to loud environments and activities

Consistent exposure to industrial or factory environments, noise generated by power tools and heavy equipment, and even live concerts can damage your hearing. Damaged hearing is frequently the underlying cause for the ringing in the ears that characterizes tinnitus. To avoid this risk, always wear hearing protection when you’re exposed to sounds that exceed 85 decibels for any length of time.

2. Smoking and tinnitus

Not many environmental influences affect tinnitus, but the nicotine in cigarettes is known to trigger it. If you’re a smoker, quitting the habit could not only eliminate multiple other health risks, but also relieve symptoms of tinnitus, as well.

3. Medication, prescription drugs and other substances

Some people report that pain relievers such as aspirin trigger their tinnitus. Malaria medications, antibiotics, certain diuretics and even food additives like NutraSweet have been documented to cause tinnitus as a side effect. Since there are many substances that could be triggering your tinnitus, make a list of what you’ve ingested recently for your visit with an audiologist.

4. Changing or hardening of the middle ear bones

As we age, our middle ears bones can change their shape or even harden in a process referred to as otosclerosis. These changes can affect the function of the cochlea, where sound input is processed and transmitted to the brain. Faulty transmissions due to these inner ear defects can, in turn, cause the ringing you experience as tinnitus.

Earwax buildup

Earwax is the cleaning agent of the ears, but too much of it can lead to impactions that interfere with our hearing and cause tinnitus. If you regularly produce excess earwax, scheduling regular removal with an audiologist could prevent recurring tinnitus. 

Age-related hearing loss

About 90 percent of tinnitus cases are accompanied by age-related hearing loss, which is why so many older adults experience it. If you suspect hearing loss, have your hearing screened and see an audiologist for a full hearing evaluation.

Diseases, illnesses, injuries and other conditions

Certain diseases like Meniere’s (a rare balance disorder), TMJ, head or neck injuries, tumors, ear infections and even high blood pressure related to pregnancy or thyroid problems may be the source of tinnitus symptoms. Never let any condition go untreated: even something as simple as an ear infection may lead to serious tinnitus and hearing problems.

Untreated tinnitus can be incredibly dangerous to your overall wellbeing. Left without treatment, tinnitus can lead to depression, anxiety and social isolation. If you’re concerned you may be suffering fro tinnitus, schedule an appointment with an audiologist in your area today.