Tinnitus - Current concepts in diagnosis and management

Journal/Book: Volta Rev. 1999; 99: 3417 Volta Place NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA. Alexander Graham Bell Assoc For The Deaf. 119-127.

Abstract: Tinnitus is defined as the perception of sound or noise in the ears or head without any external stimulation. If can present itself in many forms, such as a ringing, a hissing, a jetstream, crickets chirping, or even the sound of the ocean. A pulsating type of tinnitus is unique in the sense that it may represent a muscle spasm or an abnormality of the blood vessels within the ear or head and neck area. Tinnitus can be continuous or intermittent, and may be aggravated by loud noises, certain medications, stress, and changing positions of the head and neck. It is usually more noticeable to people in a relatively quiet environment. Although tinnitus in one ear is less common than complaints of tinnitus in both ears, it may be suggestive of an inner ear tumor, vascular abnormality, or spasm of palatal,face, or neck muscles. Subjective tinnitus is heard by the affected person only and is usually related to some form of hearing loss. Objective tinnitus is heard by both the affected person and the examiner and is generally caused by a blood vessel abnormality, muscle spasm, or joint clicking within the head or neck area. Currently, there are 40 million Americans who have tinnitus; about 10 million of them have tinnitus that is troublesome enough for these people to seek medical attention.

Note: Article Epstein S, George Washington Univ, Sch Med, Washington,DC 20052 USA

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