hopRSS

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

When Is Tinnitus Not Tinnitus?

Most causes of tinnitus today are occupational or lifestyle-related. Loud noises at work or listening to loud music can cause ringing in the ears and, if done over long periods of time, can lead to permanent hearing loss. Drug use and abuse (such as taking high doses of aspirin or ibuprofen) can also lead to tinnitus. Around ten million people across America have irreversible hearing loss, with around 30 million more being subjected to uncomfortable and unhealthy levels of noise every day.

But if you work in an office and heavy metal isn't your thing and you're still suffering with constant ringing in the ears, it may be something more serious. In these cases, none of the most common home remedies for tinnitus - like decreasing your salt intake, exercising, getting plenty of rest and lessening stress - can help. Issues like these require a doctor's intervention.

Serious Causes of Tinnitus-Type Symptoms

Tinnitus is a symptom of Meniere's Disease, which also causes dizziness, a feeling of fullness in the ear or downright hearing loss. The feeling can last anywhere from a few days to a few hours, and then resolves on its own. Meniere's Disease is actually a condition related to the ear itself and, although the cause is unknown, there are several treatment options available.

Another more serious issue is an acoustic neuroma, or a type of brain tumor that grows on the auditory nerve. With an acoustic neuroma, you typically only hear ringing in the ears on one ear or the other, instead of both. Other serious issues which can cause tinnitus symptoms include anemia (a lack of red blood cells) or an overactive thyroid. Only your doctor can diagnose and recommend treatment for serious issues that cause tinnitus-like symptoms.

Either way, it pays to have your ears examined and a hearing test conducted if tinnitus is affecting your life, work or school. Each type of tinnitus has its own treatment regimen based on your lifestyle, nutritional and exercise habits, any medications you're taking, and your family history. Talk with your doctor if your tinnitus is interfering with your daily life.

Robert Silver has been on the internet for several years blogging, and writing articles involving several topics throughout the years. He lives with his wife Lorette, in Washington State on Whidbey Island, and suffers from tinnitus (ringing in the ears) himself, which is why he wrote this article and put together his site for other tinnitus sufferers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Silver

Robert Silver - EzineArticles Expert Author

View the original article here

No comments:

Post a Comment