Tinnitus (Ear Ringing) - How to Handle It

Various medical conditions can adversely affect one's lifestyle and well-being. This is particularly worse when modern medicine cannot offer an explanation or solution, making the affected person develop a serious psychological trauma in addition to his physical problem.

One such condition is known under the name of tinnitus or more informally 'ear ringing'. It is not a disease per-se, but a symptom, whose underlying cause is usually (in more than 50% of the cases, according to some studies) not discovered. The suffering person reports hearing noises such as ringing, buzzing, hissing with no external stimuli. The noises can have different intensities, ranging from mild, barely noticeable tinnitus to severe, debilitating tinnitus. Several theories exist but there is no consensus on the cause of the mentioned ear noise.

It is widely accepted that tinnitus usually appears as a consequence of ear trauma, either mechanical or by exposure to loud noises. It these cases, it can appear as a transitory problem, requiring no treatment to disappear. As a matter of fact (see more tinnitus facts), studies have shown that the most effective treatment in mild cases where no underlying cause is found is usually the simple reassurance of a physician and acceptance of the situation.

However, the first thing to do when experiencing symptoms is to consult a specialist. Tinnitus is sometimes a symptom of ear infection (otitis media), aspirin abuse, or in rare cases tumors. Your physician will rule these out before approaching any other treatment.

If an obvious cause is not found, there are several approaches in managing tinnitus. Some rely on homeopathic treatment, others on devices that emit noise that cancels out the tinnitus sound (tinnitus maskers), and yet others are employing cold laser technology to bring relief. More information can be found in the general tinnitus information area.