Tinnitus Singapore

Tinnitus is a condition characterised by the perception of sound, such as ringing, buzzing, or hissing when no external sound is present. This noise can be constant or intermittent and may vary in pitch and volume. While tinnitus is generally harmless, it can be bothersome or even distressing. In some cases, it may signal a more serious underlying health condition.

Types of Tinnitus

There are four main types of tinnitus:

• Subjective Tinnitus – This is the most common type where only the affected person can hear the sound.
• Neurological Tinnitus – This is linked to disorders like Meniere's disease that involve nerve-related auditory issues.
• Somatic Tinnitus – This is caused by physical movement or muscle, bone, or vascular interactions, often linked to neck or jaw disorders.
• Objective Tinnitus – This is a rare form where both the patient and others can hear the sound during an ENT examination. In this case, it originates from vascular or muscular sounds.

There are four main types of tinnitus:

• Subjective Tinnitus – This is the most common type where only the affected person can hear the sound.
• Neurological Tinnitus – This is linked to disorders like Meniere's disease that involve nerve-related auditory issues.
• Somatic Tinnitus – This is caused by physical movement or muscle, bone, or vascular interactions, often linked to neck or jaw disorders.
• Objective Tinnitus – This is a rare form where both the patient and others can hear the sound during an ENT examination. In this case, it originates from vascular or muscular sounds.

The exact cause of tinnitus is generally unknown. However, common factors linked to tinnitus include:

• Age-related Hearing Loss – As people age, their hearing naturally declines. This can lead to damage in the inner ear which can result in tinnitus.
• Loud Noise Exposure – Prolonged or sudden exposure to loud noise can cause damage to the hair cells in the inner ear. This damage can lead to a persistent ringing or buzzing sensation.
• Earwax Blockage – Earwax can build up in the ear canal, leading to a blockage that prevents sound from reaching the eardrums effectively. This blockage can change the pressure in the eardrum, causing tinnitus.
• Injury to the Eardrum – Injuries to the eardrum can damage the nerves or areas of the brain involved in hearing. This disrupted sound transmission to the inner ear can lead to tinnitus.
• Otosclerosis – This is a characterised by abnormal bone growth in the middle ear. This bone growth can stiffen the stapes, a tiny bone essential for sound transmission, leading to hearing loss and tinnitus.
• Ear Infection – Ear infections can irritate the ear, causing inflammation, fluid buildup, and changes in pressure. These can damage the eardrums, resulting in persistent tinnitus symptoms.
• Head or Neck Injury – Trauma to the head and neck can damage the delicate structures of the ear or auditory system, leading to tinnitus and hearing loss.
• Meniere's Disease – This is an ear disorder caused by abnormal inner ear fluid pressure. This pressure can disrupt the inner ear’s hearing and balance functions, potentially causing tinnitus.
• Abnormal Blood Vessels – Blood vessel disorders, such as high blood pressure or aneurysms, can affect the inner ear. Increased blood flow pressure can damage delicate structures and lead to tinnitus.
• Medications – Certain medications, like antibiotics and chemotherapy agents, can cause tinnitus as a side effect.

Diagnosing tinnitus involves several tests to determine its cause, severity, and impact on a person’s hearing and overall well-being. The diagnostic process may include:

• Physical Examination – The doctor will examine the ear canal and eardrum using an otoscope to identify any abnormalities. They may also examine the head, neck, and jaw for signs of muscle tension or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues that may contribute to tinnitus.
• Hearing Tests – Audiometry is a hearing test performed to measure the patient’s ability to hear different sounds at various frequencies. The can help determine if the patient’s tinnitus is related to specific types of hearing loss like age-related or noise-induced hearing loss.
• Imaging Tests – Imaging tests, such as CT scans or MRIs, may be recommended if tinnitus affects only one ear or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. These tests can help identify abnormalities in the ear or brain.

Is tinnitus painful?

• No, tinnitus itself is not painful but the constant ringing or buzzing sound can be very frustrating or even distressing sometimes.

What are the complications of tinnitus?

• Tinnitus in itself is not a serious condition with direct complications. However, if it is severe, it can lead to other issues that may significantly affect quality of life:
  • Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Fatigue
  • Stress
  • Memory problems
  • Anxiety and depression

Should I go to ENT for tinnitus?

• Visiting an ENT specialist for tinnitus is recommended if your symptoms are severe, persistent or are disrupting your daily life. ENT specialists can evaluate your symptoms, identify their underlying cause, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Is tinnitus common in Singapore?

• Yes, tinnitus is a common condition in Singapore, especially among older adults. According to the Ministry of Health, over 12,000 Singaporeans aged 60 and above were affected by tinnitus.