What Causes Tinnitus That Occurs Every Day?

Aug 02, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
Tinnitus has a long duration and multiple clinical causes. First, tinnitus may result from otitis media triggered by inflammatory irritation. Second, it may arise from neural tinnitus. Third, it can be caused by cerumen impaction near the tympanic membrane in the external auditory canal. Patients should visit a hospital for comprehensive examinations, including electronic otoscopy, tympanometry (acoustic impedance testing), and mastoid CT scanning—particularly if tinnitus is attributable to recurrent inflammatory stimulation.

Generally speaking, the eyes and ears are the human body’s most directly exposed organs to the external environment. However, people often focus solely on what they see while neglecting what they hear. Consequently, many individuals overlook their ear health until illness develops. So, what causes persistent (daily) tinnitus?

What Causes Persistent (Daily) Tinnitus?

Tinnitus of prolonged duration has numerous clinical causes. First, it may result from inflammatory stimulation due to acute otitis media. Second, it may stem from neurogenic tinnitus. Third, impacted cerumen (earwax) near the tympanic membrane in the external auditory canal can also trigger tinnitus. Patients should undergo comprehensive diagnostic evaluations at a hospital—including electronic otoscopy, tympanometry (acoustic impedance testing), and mastoid CT scanning. If recurrent inflammation is identified as the underlying cause, targeted anti-inflammatory treatment is required. Once the inflammation subsides, localized surgical intervention may be necessary, yielding favorable outcomes. If neurogenic tinnitus is diagnosed, symptomatic treatment involving neurovascular dilation therapy may be indicated.

For recurrent tinnitus, identifying the root cause is essential. Hypertension, otitis media, cochlear collapse (cochlear invagination), and neurogenic disorders can all induce tinnitus. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), kidney deficiency is considered a primary contributor to tinnitus. Therefore, patients are first advised to consult the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at a public general hospital to determine the precise etiology of their tinnitus, followed by etiology-directed treatment.

Patients experiencing any discomfort are advised to seek prompt medical evaluation and treatment. We hope this information proves helpful to you.