Is tinnitus caused by kidney yin deficiency or kidney yang deficiency?

The kidneys are vital organs in the human body. Once damaged, many bodily functions may become severely compromised. So, is tinnitus associated with kidney yin deficiency or kidney yang deficiency?

Is tinnitus caused by kidney yin deficiency or kidney yang deficiency?

It is difficult to distinguish between kidney yin deficiency and kidney yang deficiency based solely on tinnitus. Both types of kidney deficiency—or general constitutional weakness—can cause tinnitus. A comprehensive assessment incorporating other symptoms is therefore essential. For instance, if a patient presents with soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, hypersexuality, fatigue, spontaneous sweating, or insomnia, kidney yin deficiency should be considered. Conversely, cold hands and feet, diminished libido, and lethargy suggest kidney yang deficiency.

Common manifestations of kidney deficiency include: • Kidney yin deficiency: soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, dizziness, tinnitus, insomnia with vivid dreams, flushed cheeks, tidal fever, night sweats, and nocturnal emission. • Kidney yang deficiency: soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees accompanied by cold pain, lassitude, cold limbs, increased nocturia, and loose stools. • Kidney jing (essence) deficiency: soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, impaired memory, loosening of teeth, and premature aging.

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is advisable to seek evaluation and treatment at a reputable hospital promptly. For kidney yin deficiency, foods that nourish kidney yin—such as black fungus, black sesame seeds, black rice, black beans, goji berries (Lycium barbarum), and dendrobium stem—are recommended. For kidney yang deficiency, warming foods such as lamb, dog meat, beef, and Chinese chives may be beneficial. Maintain a light, low-fat diet and engage in regular, moderate physical exercise to strengthen your immune system. We hope this information proves helpful. Wishing you optimal health and happiness!