subject: Tinnitus: Are Ipods Guilty Of Causing Ear Ringing? [print this page] What is tinnitus? It is a Latin term for ringing and a person suffering from this problem experiences a ringing sound in one or both ears. Since ancient times, humans have been suffering from this ear affliction. Several factors like a blocked ear canal, infection in the ear, blockage due to earwax and prescribed drugs can be a cause for buzzing in the ear.
Being exposed to loud sounds can cause tinnitus. Unattended badly pierced ear drums, excessive exposure to drugs, high levels of stress and frequent headaches could all trigger tinnitus. There are two types of ear ringing tinnitus. The common subjective type of tinnitus affliction produces humming that is only heard by the patient.
Objective tinnitus is diagnosed when the humming sound is audible not only to the patient but also to the doctor using a stethoscope during examining the patient. While the objective ear buzzing is commonly known and can be cured, the subjective type might be little more complicated. In such cases, when there is no cure to tinnitus ear affliction, the patient is taught to manage it.
Using ear implants and masking devices make the disturbing humming noise in the ear a little pleasant. Such pleasing white noise is manageable than constant humming. Such ailing patients are also advised to reduce their high levels of stress and depression. If the problem is caused by prescribed drugs, the doctor could advise a change in the medicine or the dose.
In order to avoid tinnitus and ear ringing, people working in noisy environments should wear ear plugs or protectors at all times. This ear problem is also increasing among youngsters today as they are exposed to loud music at disco and clubs. When recovering from an ear infection, ears tend to be more delicate. Visiting noisy places during such time can cause higher risk of tinnitus.
As a part of personal hygiene, it is essential to keep your ears clean. Building up of ear wax and blockage can also become a cause. Mental and physical fitness play an important part to reduce and avoid this problem. Focus on a healthy diet and lifestyle and keep away from excessive alcohol or smoking.
Being physically active also helps to maintain a good mental health. It reduces stress, which is one of the main causes of ear ringing. Positive thinking and a healthy lifestyle keeps you away from the risks of tinnitus.