Have you ever asked yourself, “Why are my ears ringing?” That persistent, high-pitched noise that seems to come from inside your head? You’re not alone. Known medically as tinnitus, ear ringing affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding the causes of ear ringing is key to finding the right approach to managing it, and ensuring it doesn’t interfere with your quality of life.
In this article, we’ll explain the common causes of ear ringing, why it sometimes occurs alongside a blocked sensation, and the available treatment for ear ringing.
What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the absence of an external source. It’s most commonly described as a ringing, buzzing, hissing, or humming noise in one or both ears. For some, it’s a mild annoyance; for others, it can be debilitating, interfering with concentration, sleep, and overall wellbeing.
Common causes of ear ringing
When it comes to the causes of ear ringing, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Tinnitus can arise from a variety of underlying issues, as outlined below.
1. Hearing loss
One of the most common causes is age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) or noise-induced hearing loss. Damage to the tiny hair cells in the cochlea (inner ear) can disrupt the way sound signals are transmitted to the brain, leading to tinnitus.
2. Earwax blockage
A build-up of earwax can block the ear canal, creating a sensation of ear ringing and blocked ears. The pressure from impacted wax can irritate the eardrum or create changes in the environment of the ear canal, leading to tinnitus symptoms.
3. Exposure to loud noises
Prolonged exposure to loud sounds — such as concerts, heavy machinery, or personal music devices — may damage inner ear structures and trigger ringing in the ears.
4. Ear and sinus infections
Inflammation or infection in the middle ear or sinuses can cause changes in ear pressure and lead to temporary tinnitus.
5. Medical conditions
Conditions like Meniere’s disease, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and thyroid disorders are also linked to tinnitus.
6. Medications
Certain medications (such as some antibiotics, diuretics, and anti-inflammatory drugs) list tinnitus as a potential side effect, especially at higher doses.
7. Stress and anxiety
Stress and anxiety don’t directly cause tinnitus but can make it worse. High stress levels may heighten your awareness of the ringing, making it more noticeable and harder to ignore.
Why are my ears ringing and feeling blocked?
Feeling like your ears are ringing and blocked at the same time can be particularly uncomfortable. Often, this sensation is linked to earwax build-up, fluid in the middle ear, or changes in air pressure (such as during air travel).
At Earworx, we often see patients experiencing both symptoms simultaneously. Addressing the blockage (such as by safely removing excess wax via microsuction) can relieve the pressure and help reduce the ringing. Seeing your GP for further assessment is also important, to rule out any other potential causes of tinnitus.
Treatment for ear ringing
While there is currently no universal cure for tinnitus, there are several treatments for ear ringing that can help manage the condition.
1. Address underlying causes
If earwax build-up or an ear infection is the culprit, treating the underlying issue can significantly reduce or even eliminate the ringing.
2. Sound therapy
Using background noise (like white noise machines, fans, or soft music) can mask tinnitus sounds, making them less noticeable.
3. Hearing aids
For those with hearing loss, hearing aids can amplify external sounds, reducing the contrast between background noise and tinnitus.
4. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT can help patients manage their response to tinnitus, reducing the distress and emotional impact associated with it.
5. Relaxation Techniques
Stress management strategies like mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing can also help lessen the severity of tinnitus symptoms.
When to seek professional help
If you’re experiencing persistent ear ringing, especially if it’s accompanied by hearing loss, dizziness, or a feeling of fullness in the ear, it’s important to seek professional advice. At Earworx, we can assess whether wax build-up is contributing to your symptoms and refer you to your GP or audiologist if needed.
In summary:
Understanding the causes of ear ringing is the first step towards finding relief. From earwax build-up and hearing loss to stress and medical conditions, there are many potential triggers.
Professional ear care, including safe wax removal, could be a simple and effective solution, especially if you’re experiencing ear ringing and blocked sensations.
Suffering from persistent ringing or blocked ears? Book an appointment with Earworx today and take the first step towards relief.
