Ringing in the Ears:
When to See an ENT in McComb, MS

Understanding Tinnitus: What Is It?

Tinnitus is a common issue that affects approximately 10 to 25% of adults worldwide. It is the constant or persistent ringing, clicking, buzzing, rushing, roaring, pulsing, or humming in the ears.

Tinnitus in itself is not a disease. It’s a symptom of an underlying condition, such as an ear infection, ear injury, or hearing loss.

It is often described as a persistent ringing sound. However, some people may hear other types of sounds, such as rushing, buzzing, or roaring. In some cases, the sound can be so soft that it is barely noticeable, or so loud that it blocks external sounds and makes it difficult to hear and concentrate.

People of all ages, from children to adults, can be affected by tinnitus. However, it’s most common in older adults.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Tinnitus?

Tinnitus symptoms vary significantly per patient, based on the severity of the issue, the underlying root cause, and other individual health factors.

Most patients describe the sound from tinnitus as a ringing sound in the ears. But some people may hear differently and describe what they hear as a clicking, buzzing, hissing, humming, or roaring sound instead.

Some cases of tinnitus can cause very loud sounds that could interfere with hearing external sounds, concentration, or sleep. Sounds may be present all the time or come and go intermittently.

Most cases of tinnitus are subjective, which means only the person themself can hear the sounds. In rare cases, however, tinnitus can be objective, which means your physician may also hear the sounds using a stethoscope. Objective tinnitus may be associated with an identifiable underlying condition that your physician may further evaluate.

Over time, the persistent sound in the ears can lead to frustration and may affect overall well-being in some individuals.

What Causes Tinnitus?

In many cases, it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of tinnitus. However, it’s a common symptom associated with:

• Ear infections
• Hearing loss
• Fluid buildup and earwax blockage
• Excess and prolonged exposure to noise
• Head or neck injuries
• Certain medications, especially when taken at high dosages

Less common risk factors that could cause tinnitus as a symptom include:

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

How Is Tinnitus Diagnosed?

If you’re hearing a persistent ringing, buzzing, humming, or clicking sound in your ears, consider consulting with your primary care physician or an ENT specialist in McComb, MS. They can check your ears for fluid or earwax buildup, which may potentially be causing the symptom.

A thorough physical examination of your ears can also help check for the possibility of ear infections. During your consultation, be ready to talk about your symptoms and medical history.

Depending on the clinical findings, they may refer you to an ENT specialist (also known as an otolaryngologist). During an ENT consultation, they will perform a physical examination of your ears, head, and neck.

You may also be referred to an audiologist who will evaluate your hearing and tinnitus symptoms.

Depending on individual health factors, some tests may be conducted or ordered to aid diagnosis, such as CT and MRI scans, movement tests, laboratory tests, and audiological (hearing) tests.

Tinnitus Treatment in McComb, MS

The appropriate treatment option for tinnitus will depend on the underlying cause. Treatment options may include:

• Earwax removal
• Hearing aids
• Treatment of blood vessel condition
• Changes in medication
• Cochlear implants in select cases involving significant hearing loss

Tinnitus can’t be cured in many cases. However, there are several coping strategies to manage and lessen the symptoms, which may include:

• White noise machines
• Masking devices (which are worn in-ear, similar to hearing aids, and produce continuous, low-level white noise)
• Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT)
• Counseling (such as cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT), which can help teach coping strategies and management techniques to live with tinnitus
• Education about tinnitus to help you understand your situation better

Results from treatment options and management strategies vary per individual and are not guaranteed.

Commonly Asked Questions About Tinnitus in McComb, MS

Can tinnitus be treated?

Tinnitus treatment isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. The appropriate treatment will vary based on the underlying cause, severity, and a variety of individual health factors.

Can tinnitus be prevented?

Tinnitus is not always preventable, particularly when associated with an underlying medical condition. However, there are some measures you can take to lessen the risk:

• Protect your ears with earplugs and earmuffs
• Avoid excess and prolonged exposure to loud sounds
• Limit alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine intake
• Turn down the volume of the TV or music
• Practice healthy habits, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet

When should I see an ENT doctor in McComb, MS, for tinnitus?

Consider scheduling a consultation with your ENT healthcare provider if you experience:

• Hearing loss
• A persistent ringing or clicking in your ears that lasts for more than seven days
• Dizziness, vertigo, or issues with balance

Do I need a referral to visit an ENT clinic in McComb, MS?

Referral requirements vary by insurance plan. Contact your insurance provider and confirm this information before scheduling an ENT appointment.

Conclusion: Tinnitus and Your Treatment Options in McComb, MS

This article is presented by Southwest Mississippi ENT for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Southwest Mississippi ENT provides ENT services for patients in McComb and the nearby communities. Visit and explore our website for more information about our clinic and services.