How are Tinnitus and Hearing Loss Connected

Tinnitus refers to an internal ringing sound that you hear in your ears. Only the person experiencing tinnitus hears this sound, which can vary in pitch from a low roar to a high screeching noise. The intensity of the condition varies widely as well. Some people barely notice the ringing, while others find it quite disruptive.

You may also experience the ringing sound intermittently or constantly. Some also describe it as a:

• buzzing noise
• roaring sound
• hissing sound
• humming sound

Research shows that tinnitus and hearing loss can occur at the same time. Here is more information on tinnitus and its connection to hearing loss.

What causes tinnitus?

It is common for people to experience a ringing noise in their ears immediately after exposure to very loud noises. This usually goes away a short while after you leave the noisy environment. However, tinnitus can be more persistent, especially when it is caused by:

• Constant exposure to loud noises
• Age
• Medication
• Respiratory illnesses
• Earwax buildup

What is the connection between hearing loss and tinnitus?

According to various studies, many people experience hearing loss and tinnitus simultaneously. Many don't even realize that they have both conditions, especially if they are both mild. So, what is the connection between these two conditions?

Some scientists theorize that tinnitus follows hearing loss due to the brain overcompensating for the loss of sound. Known as raising the gain concept, this theory proposes that the brain amplifies the ringing sound in the ears when it perceives less sound, thus intensifying the condition.

How can you prevent tinnitus?

The leading cause of tinnitus, and hearing loss as well, is noise pollution. If you are frequently exposed to very loud sounds, your inner year's delicate hair cells may get damaged, leading to both conditions. Therefore, the best way to protect yourself from tinnitus is to avoid noise pollution.

If you work in a noisy environment, always wear ear protection gear, like earmuffs and earplugs. 

Treatment for tinnitus

The most common treatment for tinnitus is getting a hearing aid. Your audiologist may recommend that you get a behind the ear (BTE), in the ear (ITE) or in the canal (ITC) device if your tinnitus is exacerbated by hearing loss. If you can hear other sounds better, the ringing in your ears subsides and stops bothering you as much.

The audiologist may also prescribe a sound masking machine to help counter tinnitus. The devices play pleasant sounds, like white noise, natural sounds and pink noise to drown out the ringing sound. 

If the tinnitus is a side effect of a medication you are taking, you could switch to a different type. The audiologist may also recommend that you quit smoking and excessive drinking, as they are well-known causes of tinnitus.

Therapy is yet another treatment option for tinnitus. You may undergo therapeutic counselling if anxiety and depression are the triggers for tinnitus. Alternatively, you may also have tinnitus retraining therapy to help you address your tinnitus.

Do not hesitate to seek help if the noise is too much to bear. Your audiologist will recommend the right treatment for you, and you no longer have to put up with the ringing noise.

Additionally, always protect your ears from loud noises. It can minimize the intensity of the tinnitus and can go a long way in preventing hearing loss.