Ringing in the Ears: When to See an ENT in Gilbert, AZ

Most of us use our ears and sense of hearing to communicate and build relationships with those around us. It’s how we navigate and make sense of the world around us. When something feels even slightly off about our ears and hearing, it can be confusing and sometimes, even scary.

Tinnitus is a common issue that has been reported to affect many individuals. Your ENT doctor in Gilbert, AZ, can help evaluate your symptoms and assess your hearing based on clinical findings and a variety of individual health factors.

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is characterized by a constant or persistent perception of sound in the ears without an external source. In most cases, individuals with tinnitus describe it as a ringing sound. However, some may perceive and describe it differently: a clicking, humming, buzzing, rushing, or roaring sound are also common descriptors.

It can affect people of all ages, from children to adults. However, it’s a more common occurrence for older adults. According to one study, approximately 10 to 25% of adults worldwide may experience tinnitus at some point in their lives.

What Are the Symptoms of Tinnitus?

Tinnitus in itself is not a disease, but rather a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as an ear infection or hearing loss.

Symptoms of tinnitus vary per individual. While most people would describe it as a ringing sound, others may also hear a clicking, buzzing, rushing, humming, or hissing sound in their ears.

Tinnitus can be so soft that it’s barely noticeable. However, in some cases, the sound can be so loud that it interferes with hearing, concentration, and sleep.

There are two common types of tinnitus:

• Subjective, which means only the person can hear the sound, is the more common type
• Objective, which means that a doctor may be able to hear the sound using a stethoscope, is rare and may have an identifiable cause that may be further evaluated and addressed with appropriate treatment

What Causes Tinnitus?

It’s often difficult to point to one exact cause in most cases of tinnitus. However, it can be associated a range of conditions, such as:

• Hearing loss
• Ear infections
• Wax or fluid buildup in the ears
• Head or neck injuries
• Noise-induced hearing loss
• Certain medications, especially when taken at high dosages

Some less common–but possible–risk factors include:

• Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD)
• Blood vessel conditions
• Head and neck tumors
• Bone changes in the middle ear
• Muscle spasms in the inner ear
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
• Meniere's disease
• Pre-existing conditions (such as migraines, anemia, or diabetes)
• Autoimmune disorders (such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis)

Tinnitus Testing and Diagnosis

Scheduling a consultation with your primary care physician is a good first step if you’re experiencing a constant ringing in your ears or any changes in your sense of hearing. They can check for fluid or wax buildup in the ears, as well as a potential case of an ear infection. During your consultation, they will also ask you to describe your symptoms, how long you've been experiencing them, and walk them through your medical history.

Based on findings, they may refer you to an otolaryngologist (an ENT specialist) for further testing and evaluation of your ears, head, and neck.

Additionally, some cases may further be referred to an audiologist (a hearing and balance disorders specialist) to measure and evaluate your hearing.

Tests that may be ordered and performed to aid in diagnosis include:

• Imaging tests (such as CT and MRI scans)
• Laboratory tests
• Movement tests
• Hearing or audiological exams

Tinnitus Treatment in Gilbert, AZ

There is no one standard treatment for tinnitus. Treatment options and management strategies will vary depending on individual health factors, such as the severity of the issue and the potential underlying cause.

These treatment options and management strategies may include:

• Earwax or fluid buildup removal
• Hearing aids
• Changes in certain medications
• White noise machines
• Masking devices (which are worn like hearing aids and produce continuous low-level white noise)
• Treatment for blood vessel conditions
• Education about tinnitus and coping strategies
• Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT)
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Cochlear implants (for carefully selected patients with significant hearing loss)

Can tinnitus be treated?

There is no standard treatment for tinnitus. Consult with your ENT care specialist for personalized diagnosis, treatment plans, and management strategies that take into account personal health factors.

Can tinnitus be prevented?

It’s not always possible to prevent tinnitus, especially if it results from an underlying condition. However, there are ways to manage these conditions that are typically associated with tinnitus, such as:

• Wear earplugs and earmuffs to protect your ears and hearing
• Avoid prolonged and excessive exposure to high levels of noise
• Turn down the volume when watching TV or listening to music
• Limit alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine intake

When Should I See an ENT Specialist in Gilbert, AZ, for Tinnitus?

Consider scheduling an appointment to see an ENT specialist in Gilbert, AZ, if you experience the following symptoms:

• A persistent or constant ringing, buzzing, humming, or rushing in the ears
• Hearing loss
• Ear infections
• Dizziness
• Vertigo
• Balance issues

Conclusion: Tinnitus and Your Treatment Options in Gilbert, AZ

Trinity ENT provides ear, nose, and throat care in Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler, and the nearby Arizona communities. Visit and explore our website for more information specific to our clinic and the services we provide.