What is deficiency-type tinnitus and deafness?
Jun 27, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
Deficiency-type tinnitus and hearing loss are distinguished from excess-type (organic) tinnitus and hearing loss. Deficiency-type tinnitus and hearing loss refer to symptoms not caused by organic, structural pathology of the auditory system; rather, they are primarily associated with subjective perceptions, excessive mental anxiety, depression, and other psychological factors. In contrast, excess-type (organic) tinnitus and hearing loss are attributable to actual otologic conditions—both benign and malignant—such as otitis media, otosclerosis, and acoustic neuroma, as well as systemic cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disorders, including hypertension and atherosclerosis.
Tinnitus and hearing loss are typically classified into multiple types. Some patients undergo medical examinations at hospitals but receive inconclusive or negative findings—yet they still experience tinnitus and hearing loss. What, then, is “deficiency-type” tinnitus and hearing loss?
Deficiency-Type Tinnitus and Hearing Loss
Deficiency-type tinnitus and hearing loss are distinguished from organic (or “substantive”) tinnitus and hearing loss. Deficiency-type tinnitus and hearing loss refer to symptoms not caused by structural or organic pathology of the auditory system. Instead, they primarily stem from subjective perceptions, excessive mental anxiety, depression, and other psychological factors. In contrast, organic tinnitus and hearing loss result from identifiable ear disorders—including otitis media, otosclerosis, acoustic neuroma (a benign or malignant tumor), as well as systemic conditions such as hypertension and atherosclerosis.
In women, this condition is often associated with autonomic nervous system dysfunction or menopausal syndrome, manifesting as panic attacks, tinnitus, and shortness of breath. Additionally, anemia may produce similar symptoms. In middle-aged and elderly individuals, heart failure—or heart failure complicated by arrhythmia—may present with palpitations, chest tightness, and dyspnea. If symptoms persist without improvement or worsen over time, prompt medical evaluation is essential to establish a definitive diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment. It is advisable to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, including a low-salt, low-fat diet and adequate rest.
Patients with deficiency-type tinnitus and hearing loss generally benefit from stress reduction, psychological counseling, and, when prescribed by a physician, antidepressant or anti-anxiety medications. Active patient engagement in treatment is crucial. We hope this article has been helpful to you!
