Tinnitus is the medical term for the perception of sound in one or both ears or in the head when no external sound is present. It is often referred to as “ringing in the ears,” although some people hear hissing, roaring, whistling, chirping, or clicking. Tinnitus can be intermittent or constant – with single or multiple tones – and its perceived volume can range from subtle to shattering.
Tinnitus – not a disease, just the ability to hear sounds generated by the auditory (hearing) system, evidence of compensatory mechanisms that are part of its normal function. The problem is the distress created – not the type of sound.
The exact physiological cause or causes of tinnitus are not known. There are, however, several likely sources, all of which are known to trigger or worsen tinnitus.
Allergic Reactions
Diseases
Growths/Tumors
Health Care
Injuries and Medical Treatments
Medication
Noise Exposure
Syndromes
Tinnitus does not discriminate: people of all ages experience tinnitus. However, tinnitus is not a common complaint from children.
Drugs for treating tinnitus
Anti-Depressants, Tranquilizers, and Muscle Relaxants
Alprazolam (Xanax)
Klonopin
Anti-Convulsants
Intravenous Lidocaine
Tocainide Hydrochloride
Histamine
Anti-Histamine
Meclizine
DMSO
Vinpocetine and Vincamine
Hydergine
Sodium Fluoride
Vasodilators
Diuretics
Betahistine Hydrochloride (SERC)
Caroverine
Carbogen
Vitamins for treating tinnitus
Niacin
Lecithin
Zinc
Magnesium
Herbs for treating tinnitus
Gingko Biloba
Other treatments
Surgery
Biofeedback
Acupuncture
Stress Reduction
Hearing Aids
Cranial Sacral Therapy
Electrical Stimulation
Surgically Severing the Auditory Nerves
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Feedback Therapy
Auditory Integration Training
Sound Therapy
Hypnotherapy
Homeopathic Remedies
Temporomandibular Disorder and Coexisting Tinnitus
If tinnitus only occurs in one ear, if you hear your heart beating in that ear, or if you sense a rapid loss of hearing or dizziness along with the tinnitus, then see a specialist right away. An ear, nose and throat specialist has the most focused training in and practice with this problem. Neurologists also have special training in this area of medicine.