A noise in the ears can happen to anyone but can be maddening when it comes and doesn’t improve.
As people age and hearing worsens some will unfortunately experience a sound in the ears which becomes more frequent and sometimes constant. We call this tinnitus.
There are various reasons why tinnitus occurs and depending upon the cause it may be improved by surgery, medication or other therapies.
Tinnitus is divided into pulsatile and non-pulsatile, bilateral or unilateral, constant or intermittent. It is graded depending upon the effect it is having on the patient’s life. In severe cases it can cause depression and suicide.
In the majority of sufferers however tinnitus is termed ‘benign’, meaning it is not caused by disease which is likely to cause significant harm. In many cases of mild benign tinnitus reassurance is sufficient to allay anxieties. In more severe cases treatment is required.
Management starts with a consultation at which the ears are examined. Depending upon the patients history and examination findings it may also be necessary to examine the Eustachian tubes ( tubes connecting the throat and ears). It is always necessary to perform a hearing test and pressure test ( audiogram and tympanogram). Following this a treatment plan is offered.
If you would like to arrange a consultation with Mr Banerjee to look into this condition further please contact us.