Tinnitus in West Windsor, NJ
Board-certified New Jersey otolaryngologist Dr. Scott Kay, FACS, treats tinnitus for the residents of West Windsor, NJ.
What is Tinnitus?
Ringing in the ears is called tinnitus. Tinnitus, on its own, is not a medical condition. Most commonly, it’s a symptom of hearing loss, an ear injury or another disorder.
What Are the Causes?
There is a wide variety of potential causes for tinnitus. It may be a result of a defect in blood vessels in the ear if it’s accompanied by throbbing. Additionally, neurological diseases like multiple sclerosis may cause tinnitus by causing the Eustachian tube to open and close repeatedly. Often, if this is the cause, the ringing is accompanied by a clicking sound.
Additional causes of tinnitus include:
- Aging
- Drug side effects
- Meniere’s disease
- Otosclerosis
- Exposure to loud noises
- Tumors
- Ear injury
Benefits of Seeking Tinnitus Treatment
Ongoing tinnitus can dramatically affect the quality of life of individuals who suffer from it. It may impair their ability to perceive other sounds, and it frequently leads to difficulty sleeping. A higher risk of depression has been reported in those who regularly experience recurring tinnitus. Eliminating or reducing ringing in the ears can help restore a normal life.
What Is the Treatment For Tinnitus?
Depending on the cause, tinnitus is treated in a variety of ways. Common treatments include:
- Surgery
- Use of a hearing aid
- Excess earwax removal
- Changing medications
- Wearing a device to mask ringing
