What Causes Constant Tinnitus?

　　Tinnitus not only affects daily work to a certain extent but also impairs normal communication with others. When this occurs, prompt medical treatment is essential. To achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes in the shortest possible time, identifying the underlying cause is the first and most critical step. So, what causes persistent tinnitus?

　　Causes of Persistent Tinnitus

　　Persistent tinnitus may result from conditions such as cerumen impaction, secretory otitis media, or neurasthenia. Cerumen impaction refers to the accumulation of large, hardened earwax (cerumen) in the ear canal. When water enters the ear, the cerumen swells and softens, potentially pressing against the eardrum—or it may be inadvertently pushed deeper into the ear canal during ear cleaning. Secretory otitis media typically involves impaired Eustachian tube function, hindering proper drainage of fluid from the middle ear. As a result, fluid accumulates within the middle ear cavity, leading to tinnitus. Neurasthenia is commonly associated with psychological stress and mental factors; patients experiencing prolonged anxiety, tension, and poor sleep quality frequently report tinnitus.

　　Tinnitus is generally considered linked to some degree of auditory nerve dysfunction and often co-occurs with hearing loss. Although the precise etiology remains unclear in approximately 90% of tinnitus cases, an initial hearing test is recommended to assess current auditory function. If sensorineural hearing loss accompanied by tinnitus is confirmed, fitting a hearing aid is advised as the first-line intervention to improve hearing.

　　Patients are advised to avoid exposure to noise pollution in daily life and regularly massage acupoints beneficial for ear health. We hope this information proves helpful to you.