Tinnitus is a common condition that affects many Americans every year. The residents of Norwalk, CT experiencing tinnitus are lucky enough to have Dr. Andrew Parker and his team at the Parker Audiology & Hearing Center to turn to. Our practice is geared towards treating any ear-related or ENT-related conditions in friendly, professional, and technologically advanced surroundings while treating every patient respectfully and to the best of our ability.

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is an often annoying and frustrating condition that affects the ears. Patients with tinnitus experience ringing, buzzing or whooshing noises in their ears without any external auditory input or stimuli. Some patients also describe it as roaring or clicking, which may affect one or both ears. Tinnitus may be mild or severe. It is not generally harmful but may indicate an underlying condition that needs investigation. 

What Causes Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is not a disease. Instead, it is a symptom. Dr. Parker and his team at the Parker Hearing Center serving Norwalk, CT, tinnitus sufferers suggest that one of the following may cause your symptoms.

• Inner ear damage
• Excessive build-up of earwax
• Hearing loss due to aging
• Ear infections or Meniere’s disease
• TMJ disorder
• Starting or stopping certain medications
• Exposure to overly loud noises
• Head and neck injuries
• Stress, anxiety, or depression
• Diabetes, thyroid disorders, and blood pressure irregularities.
• Intracranial hypertension

How Is Tinnitus Treated?

Tinnitus is best treated by identifying and treating the underlying cause of this symptom. However, identifying the cause can be challenging. After a complete medical assessment, your ENT may recommend one of the following:

• Hearing aid and cochlear implants for those who are also experiencing hearing loss
• An electronic device called a masker which dulls or softens the noise you are hearing
• Medications, including those used for anxiety and depression
• Tinnitus retraining therapy to help you learn to ignore or tune out the sound more effectively
• Tinnitus counseling to help you deal with your tinnitus

When Should I See a Doctor About My Tinnitus?

Tinnitus that persists beyond a week, even intermittently, should be investigated. Your doctor or ENT will first rule out causes such as ear wax buildup and ear infections. Tinnitus involves a certain amount of self-reporting, so it is a good idea to make notes surrounding the onset of your tinnitus and what you are experiencing to help guide the doctor in providing an accurate diagnosis.

Contact Us

If you are concerned you are suffering from tinnitus in the Norwalk, CT area, please reach out to Dr. Parker and his team at the Parker Audiology & Hearing Center so that we can assist because your hearing and peace of mind are precious. For appointments, call today at (203) 866-4327.