Ears ringing as if with tinnitus
Jun 05, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
In general, ringing in the ears similar to tinnitus may be caused by prolonged use of headphones or listening at excessively high volumes, leading to ear canal discomfort in noisy environments. It is recommended to avoid using headphones for extended periods. This symptom could also result from pathological factors such as sensorineural tinnitus or otitis media. If tinnitus persists for a long duration, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance.
Under normal circumstances, the sensation of ringing in the ears similar to tinnitus may be caused by non-pathological factors, or it could result from pathological conditions such as sensorineural tinnitus or otitis media. The specific causes are analyzed as follows:
I. Non-Pathological Factors
When the ears experience a ringing sensation like tinnitus but hearing and the external auditory canal show no abnormalities, this may be due to prolonged use of headphones or listening at excessively high volumes, which can cause discomfort in the ear canal in noisy environments. It is recommended to avoid using headphones for extended periods. If persistent tinnitus occurs, it is advisable to visit a hospital for evaluation.
II. Pathological Factors
1. Sensorineural Tinnitus
Sensorineural tinnitus is a common condition characterized primarily by tinnitus, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as headache, dizziness, hearing loss, or deafness. Patients are advised to improve their diet and lifestyle habits, ensure adequate sleep, avoid negative emotions such as stress and anxiety, and stay away from excessively noisy environments. If symptoms are significant or severe enough to interfere with daily life, prompt medical consultation is recommended for early diagnosis and treatment.
2. Otitis Media
Patients with otitis media may experience symptoms including tinnitus, ear pain, ear discharge, and hearing loss. Specific symptoms vary among individuals and depend on the severity of the condition. It is recommended that patients seek timely medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment. In daily life, attention should be paid to staying warm, avoiding colds, keeping the external ear canal dry, and preventing water exposure.
Besides the above three causes, other possible conditions include Ménière’s disease, temporomandibular joint disorders, or acoustic neuroma. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a physician.
