What are the causes of tinnitus?
Generally, tinnitus may be caused by aging, prolonged exposure to noise, pressure changes, otitis media, Meniere's disease, and other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and undergo symptomatic treatment under a physician's guidance. A specific analysis is as follows:
1. Aging
With advancing age, the hair cells in the inner ear may gradually degenerate, leading to tinnitus. Although age-related tinnitus cannot be reversed, sound therapy can be used to help manage tinnitus symptoms.
2. Prolonged Exposure to Noise
Long-term exposure to high-noise environments, such as workplaces or recreational activities, may damage the inner ear hair cells and trigger tinnitus. Avoid prolonged exposure to loud noises as much as possible and use earplugs or earmuffs to protect your ears.
3. Pressure Changes
Rapid pressure changes, such as during airplane ascent or descent, may cause tinnitus. Swallowing or chewing gum can help equalize pressure inside and outside the ear.
4. Otitis Media
Otitis media is caused by bacterial or viral infections in the middle ear, among other factors. The resulting inflammation leads to fluid accumulation in the middle ear, affecting sound transmission and causing tinnitus. Symptoms may include ear pain and hearing loss. It is recommended to take medications such as cefuroxime axetil tablets, enteric-coated erythromycin tablets, and prednisolone tablets under a physician's guidance.
5. Meniere's Disease
Meniere's disease is associated with disturbances in inner ear fluid balance and genetic factors. Obstruction of endolymphatic fluid circulation leads to abnormal inner ear pressure, causing tinnitus, and may also be accompanied by vertigo and fluctuating hearing loss. Patients can take medications such as betahistine hydrochloride tablets, vitamin B12 tablets, and ginkgo biloba leaf tablets under a physician's guidance.
It is important to avoid prolonged exposure to noisy environments, maintain ear hygiene, and avoid excessive headphone use in daily life.