What Causes Temporary Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a condition that is characterized by a ringing sensation in one or both ears. It is a common reason for visiting an audiologist. There are a number of known causes of tinnitus and it can be a permanent or temporary condition.

Common triggers for tinnitus are:

• Age
• Noise
• Earwax
• Ear infection
• Nasal congestion

If you are experiencing tinnitus, then you probably want to know whether it is going to be a long-term condition or a temporary one. Your audiologist will be able to discuss the potential causes with you. Some of the most common causes of temporary tinnitus include:

Exposure to Loud Noise

Noise-induced hearing loss is not uncommon and can continue to get worse over a period of time if you do not take steps to protect your hearing. However, it is possible to trigger a period of tinnitus due to exposure to loud noise. This can be in the form of an explosion, attending a loud music concert or being in a situation where there is a sudden, loud noise.

You may experience the telltale signs of tinnitus for hours or even days before it disappears.

Sinus Infection

If you develop an infection in your sinuses or have a particularly heavy cold, then your eustachian tube can become blocked, causing pressure to continue to build up near the eardrum. This pressure can then cause the ringing sensation associated with tinnitus.

As your infection resolves and the eustachian tube becomes unblocked, then your tinnitus will disappear also.

Ear Infection

An infection of the inner and outer ear can cause inflammation, swelling and a build-up of fluid around the eardrum. This blockage can cause you to hear a ringing or pulsating noise. Getting treatment for your infection will resolve your tinnitus.

The Build-Up of Earwax

The production of earwax is a perfectly natural occurrence, designed to keep the ear clean and protected. However, too much earwax can lead to a number of issues, included tinnitus. Too much earwax can put pressure on the eardrum and structure of the ear, creating a feeling of fullness, hearing loss and ringing.

Fortunately, if excess earwax is the cause of your tinnitus, then your audiologist will be able to remove it and restore your hearing.

What To Do If You Develop Tinnitus

In the first instance, you should see your audiologist, who will be able to rule out any obvious issues. They can refer you to a doctor if you require treatment for an infection. If your tinnitus is caused by a buildup of wax, they will be able to advise you on the best way to remove this and restore any hearing.

If you are experiencing temporary tinnitus after being exposed to loud noise, then they will be able to advise you on the best way to protect your hearing in the future so that you don’t experience permanent hearing loss.