What Causes Tinnitus?

Tinnitus can be caused by several factors:

Damages caused by acoustic pollution/Traumas from explosions/bursts
In 30% of cases, noises are a result of the damage to very fine capillary cells following exposure to loud noises (for example in the workplace, in a disco, etc) or due to an explosion or bang.

Almost 75% of 18-30 yr olds who regularly go clubbing have temporary tinnitus. As a result of prolonged exposure this can become permanent.

Circulatory problems
Doctors claim circulatory problems as the cause of Tinnitus, and base their therapies on this field.

Hyperacusis
This medical term defines a sudden loss or sudden decrease in hearing and is normally limited to one ear. It is often accompanied by a sound in the ear or by dizzy spells.

Ear infections
	These can cause a lot of discomfort, tinnitus symptoms and hearing loss especially if not treated. Consult your GP for treatment.

Stress
	Whilst stress doesn’t directly cause tinnitus it can make it worse. There is danger of creation of a cyclical effect – tinnitus creates stress, which increases the effects of tinnitus and so on and so on …..

Drugs
	Drugs that can affect the ears and hearing are known as ototoxic. Very few of these exist and they are rarely prescribed...

- If you are concerned that a drug you have been prescribed is making your tinnitus worse, you should discuss this with your GP. You should not alter the dose of any medication you are taking, or stop taking it, unless the GP who prescribed the medication agrees it is safe to do so. If you have any questions about any medication you are taking, or are about to take, speak to your GP or pharmacist.