Tinnitus is not a disease but rather an underlying condition that a large part of the population currently suffers from. Subjective tinnitus is a sound heard only by the patient in one or both ears. It is generally experienced as hearing a buzzing, roaring, or ringing sound and is caused by a variety of factors. It can be caused by abnormal neuronal activity in the auditory cortex. Tinnitus can be intermittent or continuous. However, continuous tinnitus can be quite difficult to deal with and can be stressful for those who experience it on a daily basis. Factors associated with contributing to tinnitus include ear problems and hearing loss, vitamin B12 deficiency, head injury, anxiety disorders, multiple sclerosis, middle ear effusion, and more. It isn’t always a serious problem, but it can worsen with age or with increased intake of caffeine and other stimulants. Tinnitus treatment does not include any surgical procedure; however, a hearing aid may provide some relief. Tinnitus causes include loud concerts, inner ear disease, medications, and more.
Some of the factors that cause subjective tinnitus are
Loud noise- Tinnitus can be caused due to loud noise by using MP3 players turned up too loud and using headphones for long periods of time. It can also be caused by loud noises from heavy machinery, chain saws, firing a weapon, etc.
Aging- Hearing loss worsens with age and can cause tinnitus. It typically starts around the age of 60.
Earwax Blockage- Earwax protects the ear from dust and bacteria. When too much earwax accumulates inside the ears, it results in hearing loss or irritation and can cause tinnitus.
Smoking- Smoking has a high chance of causing or worsening your tinnitus.
Meniere disease - This is an inner ear disorder which can be caused due to abnormal inner ear fluid pressure.
Drugs- Medications can also cause tinnitus. The higher the dose of medications the higher the chances of tinnitus. This includes antibiotics, aspirin, cancer medications, etc.
Cardiovascular Problems- High blood pressure is typically due to stress, alcohol, and caffeine. Conditions that affect the blood flow, such as high blood pressure, narrows arteries and can increase the risk of tinnitus.
Author’s Bio: The above article is about subjective tinnitus and tinnitus causes, describing the factors associated with tinnitus.