Will Tinnitus Lead to Hearing Loss?
The ringing in your ears can occur for a variety of reasons, including exposure to loud noises or trauma to the ear. In some cases, hearing loss can also be caused by an underlying health condition, such as Meniere's disease. However, tinnitus itself does not cause hearing loss.
Tinnitus is not a disease
Tinnitus is a common condition that can occur anywhere along the auditory pathway. In its simplest form, it can result from damage to hair cells in the cochlea, which is responsible for translating sound waves into nerve signals. These hair cells are normally closed, but sometimes they are bent or broken. This causes vibrations that travel directly to the eardrum, causing an unpleasant ringing sound. It is also possible to have tinnitus due to ear infections.
NSAIDs
Over-the-counter pain relievers, known as NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, have been linked to increased risk of tinnitus and hearing loss. One study, which followed nearly six thousand women over 20 years, found a 20 percent increased risk of hearing loss after taking NSAIDs or acetaminophen daily. In addition to NSAIDs, many cold and sinus medications also contain painkillers.
Earwax
If you have been experiencing symptoms of tinnitus or earwax, you should visit your doctor as soon as possible. There are many treatments available to get rid of the buildup. The most effective method is microsuction, which involves using a small suction device to extract the earwax. However, you should be aware of the risks associated with this method.
Meniere's disease
Tinnitus and Meniere's Disease are two conditions that can cause hearing loss. Both conditions occur when fluid builds up in the inner ear, which contains the organs that control balance and hearing. This fluid is called endolymph and stimulates receptors in the balance and hearing organs. These receptors send messages to the brain.
Age-related
Age-related hearing loss is a common problem associated with aging. One in two people over age 65 experience some form of age-related hearing loss. It begins slowly, and may not be noticeable at first, but gradually worsens over time. It affects people's ability to hear high-pitched sounds, which makes it difficult to understand conversations and loud noises. It's often caused by the natural breakdown of hair cells in the inner ear.
Treatment
Tinnitus is a problem that can lead to hearing loss if not treated properly. There are many different treatments available. The first step to getting tinnitus treatment is to consult a doctor. The doctor will examine your ears and conduct tests to find out if tinnitus is the cause of your hearing loss. They may also run some tests to check for underlying health problems.
