That persistent ringing, buzzing, or whooshing sound in your ears is known as tinnitus. This common condition affects millions of Americans and can range from a mild nuisance to a debilitating experience impacting sleep, concentration, and overall quality of life. While some people have temporary tinnitus that fades within hours or days, others live with chronic symptoms that require professional intervention.

Tinnitus Care in San Diego

At ENT Associates of San Diego, we provide thorough, specialized care for patients experiencing tinnitus symptoms. When you visit one of our three convenient locations in La Mesa, Chula Vista, or Escondido, you’ll meet with one of our board-certified otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat doctors).

Your specialist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation that includes a detailed medical history, physical examination, and hearing test(s) to determine the underlying cause of your tinnitus and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Advanced diagnostic tools are used to measure the frequency and intensity of the sounds you’re experiencing, enabling more precise treatment recommendations.

Why Do My Ears Ring?

Tinnitus often results from exposure to loud noises, either from a single traumatic event or prolonged exposure over time. Age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, can also trigger tinnitus symptoms.

Other common causes include:

  • Ear infections
  • Excessive ear wax buildup
  • Cardiovascular problems
  • Certain medications
  • Stress/anxiety
  • High blood pressure

Additionally, head or neck injuries may damage the inner ear or hearing nerves, leading to tinnitus. Sometimes, the condition stems from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders or structural problems in the ear canal.

Most tinnitus cases are subjective, meaning only the patient can hear the sound. Objective tinnitus, which is much rarer, produces sounds that can be heard by both the patient and the doctor because they are caused by physical structural movement in the middle ear.

Best Ways to Stop Tinnitus

Treatment approaches vary depending on the underlying cause of your tinnitus. For some, addressing the underlying health condition, such as high blood pressure or a TMJ disorder, will result in lasting relief.

When tinnitus results from earwax blockage, professional cleaning by a trained ENT can provide immediate improvement. In cases where medication is the cause, your doctor may adjust your prescription or recommend alternatives.

In other instances, sound therapy uses external noises to mask or distract from the internal tinnitus sound, often through white noise machines, hearing aids, or specialized devices. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps patients develop coping mechanisms and reduce the emotional impact of this condition.

As well, lifestyle modifications such as stress reduction, avoiding loud noises, and limiting caffeine and alcohol intake may assist in managing tinnitus. Some patients find relief through relaxation techniques, including meditation, yoga, or biofeedback.

It’s Time to Experience Relief

Don’t let the constant ringing in your ears diminish your quality of life any longer. Contact ENT Associates of San Diego today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with one of our experienced otolaryngologists.