What causes a buzzing sound in the ears after exposure to explosive noise?

Sep 07, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Ringing in the ears caused by explosive noise refers to tinnitus. Tinnitus may be triggered by factors such as excessive noise, stress and fatigue, traumatic eardrum perforation, middle ear infection, or high blood pressure. It is important to avoid exposure to loud sounds in the future; ensure adequate rest and sleep to allow recovery of the auditory nerves; and maintain a positive mood, avoiding anxiety and tension, which can help alleviate these symptoms.

Generally speaking, the ringing sensation in the ears caused by firecracker explosions refers to tinnitus. Tinnitus may be triggered by loud noise, stress and fatigue, traumatic eardrum perforation, otitis media (middle ear infection), hypertension, or other causes. If any discomfort occurs, seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Excessive Noise

The intense sound produced by firecracker explosions can strongly stimulate the ears, especially when one is in close proximity. This may damage auditory nerves and hair cells, leading to tinnitus. It is recommended to quickly move away from noisy environments and rest in a quiet place. Symptoms usually resolve spontaneously within a short period.

2. Stress and Fatigue

Long-term mental tension, high work pressure, or physical exhaustion may lead to dysfunction across various body systems, including poor circulation that affects blood supply to the inner ear, thereby triggering tinnitus. It is advised to improve lifestyle habits, ensure adequate rest, engage in moderate physical exercise, learn relaxation techniques, and seek psychological counseling if necessary.

3. Traumatic Eardrum Perforation

The powerful sound from firecrackers may create excessive pressure differences across the eardrum, resulting in perforation. This can cause symptoms such as tinnitus and ear fullness, possibly accompanied by ear bleeding and pain. Patients may take medications such as cefuroxime axetil tablets, amoxicillin capsules, or ofloxacin ear drops according to medical advice.

4. Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection)

Otitis media is typically caused by bacterial or viral infections or Eustachian tube dysfunction. The inflammatory response and fluid buildup can compress the auditory nerve, disrupting normal transmission of hearing signals and causing tinnitus. It is often accompanied by ear pain and hearing loss. Under medical supervision, patients may be treated with medications such as amoxicillin capsules or cefixime dispersible tablets.

5. Hypertension

Hypertension is generally caused by a combination of genetic factors, unhealthy lifestyles, and obesity. Increased vascular pressure in patients may damage or spasm small blood vessels in the ear, leading to tinnitus. Other possible symptoms include headache, blurred vision, and palpitations. Under a doctor’s guidance, patients may use antihypertensive medications such as benazepril hydrochloride tablets, nifedipine sustained-release tablets, or irbesartan hydrochlorothiazide tablets.

To prevent recurrence, avoid re-exposure to extremely loud sounds; ensure sufficient rest and sleep to allow recovery of the auditory nerves; maintain a positive mood and avoid anxiety or stress, which can help alleviate the above symptoms.