Ringing in the Ears:
When to See an ENT for Tinnitus in Henderson & Las Vegas, NV
Our ears and sense of hearing play crucial roles in how we navigate the world, communicate and build relationships, and make sense of what’s going on around us. It doesn’t come as a surprise that many of us are thrown off when even something small goes wrong with our ears and hearing abilities.
An ENT specialist in Henderson and Las Vegas, NV, can help evaluate your tinnitus symptoms and discuss potential treatment options and management strategies, based on clinical findings and individual health factors.
Tinnitus is a common ear issue that has been reported to affect many individuals. While some cases are mild and don’t affect people’s daily life, other cases may be associated with hearing changes, concentration issues, or sleep disruption in some cases.
What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is characterized by a constant perception of sound without a clear external source. In most cases, it is described as a ringing sound. However, some individuals may hear and describe it differently, such as a clicking, humming, buzzing, rushing, or roaring sound. Tinnitus itself is not a disease, but rather a symptom of some other underlying condition, such as an ear infection or hearing loss.
Tinnitus can affect people of all ages, from children to adults. However, it’s more common in older adults. According to a study, approximately 10 to 25% of adults worldwide may experience tinnitus at some point.
What Are the Symptoms of Tinnitus?
Symptoms of tinnitus vary significantly per individual. In most cases, the sound is described as a ringing sound in the ears. However, for some people, it may be more of a clicking, buzzing, rushing, humming, or hissing sound.
The sound from tinnitus can sometimes be so soft that it is barely noticeable. In other cases, the sound can be so loud that it interferes with one’s ability to hear, concentrate, or sleep.
Most cases of tinnitus are subjective, which means that only the person can hear the persistent sound. In rare cases, tinnitus is objective, which means that a physician may be able to hear the sound using a stethoscope. Objective tinnitus may have an identifiable cause that may be addressed with appropriate treatment.
What Causes Tinnitus?
In most cases, the exact cause of tinnitus is unknown. However, it can be associated with common conditions, such as:
- Ear infections
- Hearing loss
- Earwax or fluid buildup
- Head or neck injuries
- Noise-induced hearing loss
- Certain medications taken at high dosages
There are also some less common risk factors for tinnitus, which can include:
- Autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
- Pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes, migraines, or anemia
- Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD)
- Head and neck tumors
- Blood vessel conditions
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
- Meniere’s disease
- Bone changes in the middle ear
- Muscle spasms in the inner ear
How Is Tinnitus Tested and Diagnosed?
If you’re noticing changes in your hearing or ear health, schedule a consultation with your primary care provider. They may perform a thorough physical examination of your ears to check for fluid or earwax buildup, as well as a possible case of an ear infection. They will also ask about your symptoms, how you’ve been experiencing them, and your medical history.
Based on clinical findings, they may refer you to an ENT specialist, also known as an otolaryngologist, for further testing of your head, neck, and ears.
In some cases, you may be further referred to an audiologist for further testing and evaluation of your hearing and ears.
Tests that may be performed and ordered to aid in the diagnosis may include imaging tests (such as CT and MRI scans), laboratory tests, movement tests, and hearing exams.
How Is Tinnitus Treated?
Treatment options and management strategies for tinnitus will vary depending on the severity of the issue and underlying cause.
Common treatment options may include:
- Earwax removal
- Hearing aids
- Changes in medication
- Treatment for blood vessel conditions
- Cochlear implants in carefully selected patients with significant hearing loss
In cases where tinnitus cannot be cured, there are several management strategies, including:
- White noise machines
- Masking devices (which are worn like hearing aids and produce continuous low-level white noise)
- Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT)
- Tinnitus education
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or other forms of counseling
Commonly Asked Questions About Tinnitus in Henderson & Las Vegas, NV
Can tinnitus be treated?
There is no single standard treatment for all cases of tinnitus. Treatment options and their efficacy will vary depending on several individual health factors, such as the severity of the issue and the underlying potential cause. A consultation with an ENT specialist can help recommend appropriate treatment and management strategies for your condition.
Can tinnitus be prevented?
In most cases, tinnitus cannot be prevented, especially if it is associated with an underlying medical condition. However, there are safety precautions in managing conditions typically associated with tinnitus:
- Wear earplugs and earmuffs to protect your ears from excess noise and cold, respectively
- Limit alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine intake
- Avoid prolonged exposure to high levels of noise
- When watching TV or listening to music, turn down the volume
When should I see an ENT doctor in Henderson and Las Vegas, NV, for tinnitus?
Consider scheduling an appointment with an ear, nose, and throat doctor if you experience the following symptoms:
- A persistent ringing, clicking, buzzing, or humming in the ears without an external source
- Hearing loss
- Ear infections
- Dizziness, vertigo, or balance issues
Understanding Tinnitus and Your Treatment Options in Henderson & Las Vegas, NV
Las Vegas Sinus & ENT Centers provides ENT services in Henderson, Las Vegas, Summerlin, and the surrounding Nevada communities. Learn more about our clinic, services, and specialities by visiting and exploring our website.