Learn what tinnitus is, its common causes, how it is diagnosed and the treatment options available at K K Hospital, Delhi, to help you manage ringing in the ears.
What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the perception of sound—often a ringing, buzzing, hissing or whistling—without an external source. It can affect one or both ears and may be constant or intermittent.
Common Causes
- Exposure to loud noise (concerts, construction, headphones)
- Age‑related hearing loss
- Ear infections or wax buildup
- Medications that affect hearing (e.g., certain antibiotics, diuretics)
- Medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes or thyroid disorders
Symptoms to Watch For
Typical symptoms include:
- A persistent or intermittent ringing, buzzing, hissing, or humming in the ears
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping due to the noise
- Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Associated hearing loss or dizziness
How is Tinnitus Diagnosed?
At K K Hospital, our ENT specialists use a systematic approach:
- Medical History: Detailed discussion of symptom onset, exposure to noise, medications and underlying health conditions.
- Physical Examination: Otoscopic inspection of the ear canal and eardrum.
- Audiometry: Hearing tests to assess any loss that may be linked to tinnitus.
- Imaging (if needed): CT or MRI to rule out structural problems.
Treatment Options
Management is tailored to the cause and severity:
- Sound Therapy: Use of white‑noise machines or hearing aids to mask the ringing.
- Cognitive‑Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps reduce the emotional impact of tinnitus.
- Medication Review: Adjusting or stopping ototoxic drugs under medical supervision.
- Medical Treatment: Addressing underlying conditions such as ear infections, hypertension or thyroid disorders.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Reducing exposure to loud noises, using ear protection, limiting caffeine and nicotine.
When to Seek Immediate Care
If you experience sudden onset of tinnitus accompanied by:
- Severe dizziness or vertigo
- Sudden hearing loss
- Ear pain or drainage
- Facial weakness
Visit the ENT department at K K Hospital promptly.
Prevention and Lifestyle Tips
- Wear earplugs in noisy environments.
- Keep volume low on personal audio devices.
- Maintain regular check‑ups if you have chronic conditions like hypertension.
- Manage stress through yoga, meditation or breathing exercises.
K K Hospital- Super-Specialty Hospital Delhi
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