How to Differentiate Tinnitus from Cerebral Humming
Aug 24, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
Tinnitus is a phenomenon in which individuals perceive sound subjectively, despite the absence of any external auditory stimulus. It is a symptom resulting from auditory dysfunction, commonly caused by conditions such as hypertension, drug toxicity, and neurasthenia. Typical associated symptoms include hearing loss, headache, and deafness. “Brain tinnitus” (a term sometimes used to describe tinnitus linked to cerebral hypoperfusion) primarily occurs in elderly individuals due to insufficient cerebral blood supply; excessive mental exertion and inadequate sleep can also contribute to this condition.
Due to the similarities between cerebral tinnitus (brain ringing) and subjective tinnitus, these two conditions are easily confused during diagnosis—often leading to delayed treatment. So how can one distinguish between tinnitus and cerebral tinnitus?
How to Differentiate Tinnitus from Cerebral Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a perceptual phenomenon in which individuals hear sounds subjectively, despite the absence of any external auditory stimulus. It is a symptom resulting from dysfunction of the auditory system, commonly caused by hypertension, ototoxic drug exposure, or neurasthenia. Typical associated symptoms include hearing loss, headache, and deafness. In contrast, cerebral tinnitus primarily arises from insufficient cerebral blood supply—especially in elderly patients—and may also be triggered by excessive mental exertion or chronic sleep deprivation. Common manifestations include a sensation of “ringing in the head,” memory impairment, and dizziness. While tinnitus originates in the ear, cerebral tinnitus originates centrally—in the brain. Diagnosis of tinnitus typically involves instrumental examination of the ear for organic pathology—for example, otitis media—whereas evaluation of cerebral tinnitus focuses on the brain, often revealing abnormalities on electroencephalography (EEG); the ears themselves usually show no organic lesions.
Treatment for tinnitus may include medications such as dihydroergotoxine to improve local cochlear circulation and alleviate symptoms. Additional therapeutic options include biofeedback therapy and psychological counseling. Moreover, if tinnitus results from an auricular (ear) arterial aneurysm, surgical intervention is required.
Cerebral tinnitus requires comprehensive evaluation by a neurologist, including non-contrast brain MRI and cerebral angiography. Treatment typically involves microcirculation-improving agents—such as alprostadil, cinnarizine, and ginkgo biloba extract (e.g., Tanakan®). Patients should also actively reduce stress, maintain an optimistic outlook, ensure adequate sleep, and strictly control blood pressure, blood glucose, and lipid levels. We hope this information proves helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness!
