What Causes Tinnitus in Men?
Aug 24, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
The most common causes of tinnitus in men include: otitis externa, impacted cerumen, foreign bodies in the external auditory canal, and traumatic tinnitus. Additionally, neural tinnitus may arise from significant mental or lifestyle stress, as well as insufficient rest and sleep. Organic tinnitus may result from conditions such as cervical spondylosis, cardiovascular disease, or cerebrovascular disease—these disorders can lead to reduced cerebral blood supply, thereby causing mild hypoperfusion of the inner ear.
Individuals who have experienced tinnitus may attribute it to internal heat (“shanghuo”) or external trauma. Persistent or recurrent tinnitus, however, is an abnormal symptom requiring attention and intervention to reduce its frequency. So, what causes tinnitus in men?
What Causes Tinnitus in Men?
The most common causes of tinnitus in men include: otitis externa, impacted cerumen (earwax blockage), foreign bodies in the external auditory canal, and traumatic tinnitus. Additionally, neurogenic tinnitus—often triggered by high levels of mental or life stress, insufficient rest, or chronic sleep deprivation—may also occur. Organic tinnitus may arise from underlying conditions such as cervical spondylosis, cardiovascular disease, or cerebrovascular disorders, which can impair cerebral blood flow and consequently reduce perfusion to the inner ear.
Moreover, due to greater susceptibility to fatigue, men often present with symptoms such as soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees—termed “kidney deficiency” in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Consequently, tinnitus associated with kidney deficiency tends to be more prominent in men. Treatment for tinnitus must be tailored to its underlying cause. Commonly recommended interventions include localized tympanic membrane massage, alongside stress reduction and maintenance of a positive mental outlook.
Furthermore, male patients may develop neurogenic tinnitus due to adverse psychological factors, excessive work- or life-related stress, irregular sleep-wake patterns, or chronic fatigue and sleep deprivation. Prolonged exposure to noisy environments—such as occupational settings or entertainment venues—or excessive use of headphones may also contribute to tinnitus. We hope this information proves helpful!
