An Audiologist in Pierce County, WA Explains Tinnitus
Reviewed by Dr. Porter on March 6, 2019
Even people with totally normal and healthy hearing might hear something strange every once in a while, but problems can arise when these occurrences become more frequent. For about 10 percent of adults in the United States, tinnitus, a specific type of abnormal noise perception, is a regular occurrence. While this issue can be mild for some people, it can have a major impact on quality of life if the issue is severe or frequent enough. Read on to find out more about tinnitus and what an audiologist in Pierce County, WA can do to help if you’re living with this hearing issue.
What is tinnitus?
Tinnitus is a condition that’s characterized by the perception of ringing in the ears without any apparent environmental cause. The specific nature of the sound that people who have tinnitus experience can vary from a high-pitched ringing to a buzzing or humming sound. Tinnitus becomes more common as people get older, but people of all ages can experience tinnitus.
Causes and treatments
There are several different things that have the potential to cause tinnitus in patients. One of the most common causes of tinnitus is a deterioration of the fibers in the inner ear that can contribute to hearing issues. Tinnitus may also occur as a result of trauma to the ears that contribute to hearing loss. People who work in construction, military veterans and musicians often experience excessive noise-related hearing trauma that may accelerate the deterioration of hearing organs.
Tinnitus has also been linked to excessive earwax accumulation in the ear, as well as sinus infections and ear infections that can affect the inner ear. Some people who have tinnitus only experience symptoms temporarily and infrequently, while others deal with tinnitus on a daily basis. Tinnitus doesn’t just affect a person’s ability to perceive noises in their environment—it can also make it difficult to think clearly and focus on tasks.
The good news for people who have tinnitus is that the issue can be treated. One of the most effective treatment methods is hearing aid use. Hearing aids can help combat tinnitus that’s related to aging-related hearing loss, as well as hearing trauma that contributes to tinnitus. In addition, hearing aids can contribute to an overall higher quality of life that enables people to perform better at work, follow along during conversations and enjoy their favorite activities and hobbies. If you’re experiencing tinnitus symptoms, it’s important to find an audiologist in Pierce County, WA who can help you with your problem.
Visit an audiologist in Pierce County, WA
At Harbor Audiology & Hearing Services Inc., we know how much of an impact hearing issues and disabilities can have on quality of life, and our team is dedicated to helping our patients find lasting solutions. Whether you want to have your hearing tested for the first time or you are interested in upgrading to newer hearing aids, our team has the skills and experience necessary to help you. If you’re looking for an audiologist in Pierce County, WA who you can trust with all of your hearing concerns and needs, reach out to our office today to schedule your appointment.
Categorised in: Audiologist