Why does cervical spondylosis cause tinnitus?
Disease description:
I have been engaged in desk work for a long time, sitting in front of a computer for extended periods each day. Recently, this has triggered cervical spondylosis with neck and shoulder pain, accompanied by tinnitus. I suspect the tinnitus is caused by cervical spondylosis. Why can cervical spondylosis lead to tinnitus?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Cervical spondylosis can lead to insufficient blood supply to the brain, thereby causing tinnitus. Osteophyte formation in the cervical vertebrae may compress the vertebral-basilar artery, resulting in ischemic symptoms. The basilar artery, located in the posterior cerebral arteries at the upper part of the brainstem, gives rise to the internal auditory artery that supplies blood to the inner ear. Therefore, when this is affected, tinnitus may occur. If tinnitus caused by cervical spondylosis is severe, sound masking therapy may be considered. For example, helping patients gradually adapt to the tinnitus may ultimately achieve therapeutic effects. In daily life, one should break the habit of prolonged sitting, get up and relax appropriately, but avoid excessive strenuous exercise that could further damage the cervical spine.
