Tinnitus occurs when you have a ringing in your ears that no one else can hear. It can be bothersome, but it is not usually the sign of anything serious. Nearly 50 million Americans experience some degree of this audiological and neurological condition (Source: American Tinnitus Association). The ear, nose, and throat (ENT) experts at University of Miami Health System are leaders in treating conditions and disorders of the ear, nose, and throat, including tinnitus.
Tinnitus is not truly its own condition, but rather, a symptom of another underlying condition. Conditions that can cause tinnitus include:
- Age-related hearing loss
- Injury to the ear or head
- Circulatory system disorder
Tests
Hearing Tests
Your ENT specialist will likely recommend a hearing test (audiometry), in which a variety of tones and sounds are played into each of your ears, one at a time, to check for hearing loss.
Imaging
Images obtained from a computerized tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allow your doctor to accurately diagnose your tinnitus.
Treatments
Removing Earwax
By removing earwax, tinnitus symptoms may lessen.
Managing a Blood Vessel Condition
Certain blood vessel conditions may cause people to hear internal noises, so treatment like medication or surgery may be needed.
Adjusting Your Medication
Some medications can cause ringing in the ears in some people, so your doctor may recommend switching or adjusting your dose.
Noise Suppression
Another tactic that your ENT doctor may recommend is noise suppression, which involves purchasing a white noise machine to use at home to help block out the tinnitus-related ringing.
Hearing Aids
Your doctor may recommend hearing aids if you have hearing loss in addition to the tinnitus.
Why Choose UHealth?
The Department of Otolaryngology ranks No. 9 in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report. The ranking reflects the department’s dedication to excellence in research, patient care and outcomes. The experts in the UHealth Ear Institute provide comprehensive and innovative care of ear, hearing, and balance disorders. This includes the Children’s Hearing Program and the hereditary deafness clinical and research group, where more than 15 percent of the known genetic hearing loss mutations have been discovered.
World-class care in an academic health system. We are recognized throughout South Florida and the world as a leader in treating conditions and disorders of the ear, nose, and throat. Backed by one of the nation's top universities, our team uses the latest technologies and research-driven expertise to provide you with superior, personalized care and the best outcomes.
Tinnitus clinic. We are home to a clinical and research center focused on the diagnosis, treatment, management, and research of tinnitus in adults and children. Led by experts, the clinic provides accurate diagnoses and precision treatment for adults and children, along with the most advanced research and clinical trials about this condition.
Questions? We're here to help.
Our appointment specialists are ready to help you find what you need. Contact us today.