My Ears are Ringing; Am I Going Deaf?

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Do you have ringing in your ears that just won’t quit? You may be panicking and worrying that you’re going deaf. Don’t worry, you’re not alone in how you’re feeling. Chances are that you are experiencing something minor, but it’s still best to get it checked out.

If you’re experiencing ringing in your ears, you’re likely experiencing tinnitus. Tinnitus can be described as a sound in the head with no external source. It may sound different to different people, but for many, it is a ringing sound. For others, it may come in the form of whistling, buzzing, chirps, hissing, humming, or even roaring or shrieking. The sound could come from one ear or both, and sound like it’s coming from inside your head or from a distance. You may notice this ringing is sporadic, or perhaps it is steady. If the condition lasts for longer than 6 months, it is considered chronic tinnitus. For some, the ringing stays the same. For some, it worsens.

Tinnitus isn’t uncommon. Most people can name a time where there was annoying, yet short-lived, ringing in their ears, whether it was after a concert or after being exposed to a loud noise. Statistics suggest that 50 to 60 million Americans experience tinnitus. Tinnitus could be a response to certain medications, such as aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and will dissipate when the drug is no longer used. The condition can also be caused by impacted earwax or problems in the middle ear. It is also a sign of aging. Many individuals think that tinnitus is a sign of impending deafness or something more serious, but more often than not, it isn’t. However, for some people, especially those aged 55 and above, tinnitus can be a sign of hearing loss. In fact, most people with tinnitus have some degree of hearing loss, no matter how minor. That’s why it’s best to get checked out.

If you’re experiencing ringing in your ears that won’t go away, it’s best to speak with a professional who can accurately diagnose you. To see an audiologist, give Amdahl Hearing a call today at 320-281-6936.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.