• A punctured eardrum due to loud noises and unusual change in pressure by diving or flying can lead to tinnitus.
• Some may hear their heartbeat. This problem can be due to blood vessel conditions such as blockage in the blood vessels or high blood pressure, which can cause tinnitus.
• Some underlying conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Meniere’s disease (affecting the inner part of the ear), Otosclerosis (stiffening of the small bones in the middle ear), certain allergies and injuries to the head and neck can lead to tinnitus.

Depending on the condition, the pitch of the ringing or whistling can be loud or soft. The condition can become worse in some people who are alcoholic, smoking, caffeinated beverages and unclear reasons such as stress and fatigue.

Can Tinnitus go away on its own?

In most cases, Tinnitus will not subside itself or go away with time. Sometimes, as a result of short-term exposure to certain loud noises, Tinnitus can become more noticeable and improve on its own after a few days. However, if it is taking a long time to clear on its own, you must consult an ENT specialist to address the underlying issue. Once the doctor figures out the root cause, the patient may start feeling better.

How is Tinnitus diagnosed ?

Tinnitus is mostly subjective and might be tricky to diagnose. But at the very first appointment, the ENT specialist will discuss your medical history. Following that, he will:

• Examine your head, neck, and look thoroughly inside your ears.
• Ask you to move your eyes, arms, neck and legs.
• Conduct CT or MRI scans
• Perform lab tests for checking anaemia and heart problems.

The doctor might be unable to find the real cause. In that case, he will work with you to manage the condition better.

Is Tinnitus curable?

There is no scientifically proven cure for Tinnitus. However, your doctor may be able to reduce your symptoms and help you live better by treating the underlying cause. These include:

• Removal of earwax blockage
• Treating blood vessel conditions
• Use of hearing aids in case of age-related hearing loss
• Sound maskers that create low-level noise by blocking the ringing or humming sound
• Relaxation techniques such as exercise and deep breathing.
• Changing the medication or prescribing certain topical anaesthetics
• Tinnitus retraining therapy in which you have to wear a gadget or mask and hear tonal music to feel less distressed
• Cognitive behavioural therapy to make symptoms less bothersome

Tinnitus might be a temporary problem. Once the doctor finds out the underlying root cause, chances are bright. But most importantly, if it is creating troubles in your everyday life, then only the doctor can help you figure out the root cause and start the treatment accordingly.