The 4 Different Types of Tinnitus

Whatever your age or condition, you might be considering a hearing test. This might be because you are concerned about something such as ringing or buzzing in your ears, muted sounds or suspected hearing loss. Ringing in the ears is called tinnitus, and it can become a debilitating issue. The constant buzzing can cause negative impacts on your physical, emotional and mental wellbeing.

However, many people are a little apprehensive about booking a tinnitus test. It may be your first time, and you aren’t too sure about what will happen. But at some point, everyone requires an audiologist appointment.

Some common reasons for seeing an audiologist about tinnitus include:

• Your lifestyle can cause hearing issues.
• Symptoms are getting worse.
• You should include an audiologist as you would a dentist or general physician.

There are many hobbies and even jobs that can damage your hearing and cause tinnitus. If left untreated, the issue is almost guaranteed to get worse. And seeing an audiologist is very easy these days and you can see reviews on the internet.

Four Different Forms of Tinnitus

Tinnitus can have a variety of different causes and symptoms depending on what type you are experiencing. The four categories of tinnitus include subjective, neurological, somatic and objective. Each presents with similar symptoms (undefined noises without a source you can pinpoint), but varies slightly:

• Subjective: This is one of the most common forms of tinnitus and sounds are only heard by the afflicted individual. Long-term exposure to damaging sounds is the most common cause. Subjective tinnitus can appear suddenly and decrease just as quickly, or could remain longer and never quite stop completely.
• Neurological: This type of tinnitus is typically connected to a disorder like Meniere’s disease and impacts the brain’s processing of auditory stimuli.
• Somatic: Linked to the sensory system, somatic tinnitus is related to the musculoskeletal system and is usually not caused by anything impacting the auditory system.
• Objective: This is the rarest form of tinnitus and is thought to be connected to involuntary muscle contractions or even vascular deformities. This is the only type of tinnitus that can actually be heard by another individual and the only one that can be treated completely.

Hobbies and Lifestyle

Audiologists recommend tacking precautions if you are exposed to loud sounds on either a regular, prolonged, or continuous basis. While most people prefer the quiet and are usually only exposed to loud sounds when at work or on an infrequent basis, some choose to be around loud and potentially harmful sounds as part of a hobby.

Harmful hobbies include firearms and hunting, plane or train spotting, and playing in a band. Musicians are particularly susceptible to tinnitus since they are constantly exposed to loud music. Special hearing plugs can reduce the harm. Short burst sounds are also detrimental. The bang of a gun as a projectile leaves the barrel will cause immense damage without ear protection.

Your Symptoms May Get Worse

Not seeking treatment for tinnitus could potentially allow it to get worse over time. However, because treatment for most hearing loss is relatively simple, this is a rather poor choice. Finances might be an issue, but getting straightforward treatment now means a lower cost in the future.

Also, the social aspects of hearing loss or tinnitus might get worse. It isn’t uncommon for social isolation to occur with hearing-related issues. This is because you might avoid public gatherings due to not being able to hear people properly. Leaving yourself in isolation like this can make the feelings of depression and anxiety worse.

When to See an Audiologist

Tinnitus is something that you can find relief for if you seek treatment from an audiologist. The most common methods of alleviating tinnitus include: hearing aids with masking features, white noise machines, lifestyle alterations and tinnitus retraining therapy. Tinnitus retraining therapy teaches individuals how to block out the unwanted sounds and refocus their attention elsewhere, providing them with a less busy brain and taking away side effects like exhaustion, headaches and general anxiety.

If you require treatment for tinnitus, then consult an audiologist today. To find reputable audiologists, simply ask family or friends who have previously visited a practice. In addition, word of mouth is always a great source of information, so ask people you know about the clinic and its staff. Most people aren’t shy about what they say online so don’t be afraid to ask about important things. The team at The Hearing Clinic in Woodlake is well-versed in helping you get a handle on your tinnitus. You can reach one of our friendly professionals by calling (612) 246-4868 and scheduling an appointment today.