Different Types of Tinnitus Explained

Tinnitus is characterized by the perception of sound in the absence of an external noise source. It affects millions of people worldwide and can manifest in various ways, making it essential to understand the different types of tinnitus. In this article, we will explore the main types of tinnitus, their characteristics, and potential causes.

Subjective Tinnitus

Subjective tinnitus is the most prevalent form, affecting approximately 99% of individuals who experience tinnitus. It is characterized by sounds that only the person with tinnitus can hear. These sounds may include ringing, buzzing, hissing, or clicking, and can vary in pitch, volume, and duration.

The primary causes of subjective tinnitus are usually related to the auditory system, such as:

1. Age-related hearing loss: The natural aging process can lead to a decline in hearing and the development of tinnitus.
2. Noise-induced hearing loss: Exposure to loud noises can damage the hair cells in the inner ear, resulting in tinnitus.
3. Earwax buildup: Excessive earwax can cause pressure and irritation, leading to tinnitus.
4. Ear infections: Infections can cause inflammation and affect the auditory system, resulting in tinnitus.

Objective Tinnitus

Objective tinnitus is a rare form that can be heard by both the person experiencing it and the healthcare provider examining them. This type of tinnitus is usually caused by vascular or muscular issues that generate sound. Objective tinnitus can often be treated by addressing the underlying cause.

Some causes of objective tinnitus include:

1. Turbulent blood flow: Irregular blood flow in the blood vessels near the ear can create noise, which is perceived as tinnitus.
2. Muscle spasms: Involuntary contractions of the muscles in the middle ear can produce sound, leading to tinnitus.
3. Patulous Eustachian tube: An abnormally open Eustachian tube can cause the perception of sound due to the transfer of internal bodily noises to the ear.

Pulsatile Tinnitus

Pulsatile tinnitus is a subtype of objective tinnitus, characterized by a rhythmic, pulsating sound that often corresponds with the individual’s heartbeat. This type of tinnitus is usually caused by blood flow changes or increased awareness of blood flow near the ears.

Causes of pulsatile tinnitus can include:

1. High blood pressure: Elevated blood pressure can lead to turbulent blood flow, causing pulsatile tinnitus.
2. Arteriovenous malformations: Abnormal connections between arteries and veins can result in pulsatile tinnitus due to altered blood flow.
3. Intracranial hypertension: Increased pressure within the skull can lead to the perception of pulsatile tinnitus.

Understanding the different types of tinnitus is crucial in identifying the underlying causes and finding appropriate treatment options. If you are experiencing tinnitus, consult your audiologist for a proper evaluation and tailored treatment plan.