Hearing loss and tinnitus are two disorders that are frequently linked to one another. Hearing loss is a decrease in the capacity to hear sounds, whereas tinnitus is the perception of sound in the ears or head without any external source.
Even while both problems can exist separately, tinnitus and hearing loss frequently go hand-in-hand together. To learn more about the connection between tinnitus and hearing loss, keep on reading!
Around the world, millions of individuals suffer from tinnitus. It may present as sounds heard in the ears or brain, such as ringing, buzzing, or other noises. While its specific cause remains unknown, tinnitus is believed to be caused by damage to the auditory system. Loud noise exposure, certain medications, ear infections, and other underlying medical issues can all result in the development of tinnitus.
On the other hand, hearing loss refers to a decline in the capacity to hear sounds. Age, exposure to loud noise, infections, genetics, and certain medical problems are some possible causes of hearing loss. Hearing loss can range from mild to severe, and can be temporary or permanent. An individual’s ability to speak, interact socially, and carry out everyday tasks can all be significantly impacted by hearing loss. Assistive listening devices like a hearing aid, bone anchored hearing aid or cochlear implant in Singapore are among the available treatment options for hearing loss.
The connection between tinnitus and hearing loss lies in the fact that they can both be caused by damage to the auditory system. Hearing loss and tinnitus can both come from damage to the ear's delicate components, which can alter how sound is processed. As mentioned earlier, tinnitus is frequently experienced by those who have hearing loss.
The way the brain interprets sound can also help to explain the connection between these two conditions. The brain strives to make up for the loss of sound input when the auditory system is damaged by becoming more sensitive to the remaining signals. As a result, phantom sounds, like those associated with tinnitus, may be perceived.
Lastly, both tinnitus and hearing may have a significant impact on one’s mental, social and physical well-being. It can be challenging to manage hearing loss or tinnitus, and this can result in anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Tinnitus can be particularly upsetting for certain people since it can be hard to ignore, and it may interfere with daily tasks and sleep. People who have hearing loss may find it difficult to communicate with others, which can have an impact on their relationships and social interactions. Similar to how noise can affect sleep and attention, tinnitus can also cause physical symptoms like exhaustion.
While tinnitus and hearing loss have no known causes, there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms.
For instance, using devices e.g. hearing aids to produce sounds and amplify environmental sounds to relieve patients/clients from phantom sound due to tinnitus.
To sum up, tinnitus and hearing loss are two conditions that are frequently associated with one another. Damage to the auditory system can result in both disorders, which can have a serious effect on a person’s physical, social and emotional well-being.
Get your hearing checked with a hearing test by an experienced audiologist in Singapore today. Doing so will allow you to get an early diagnosis and prompt treatment.
If you are looking for hearing aids and tinnitus treatment in Singapore, D&S Audiology is the one for you. We specialise in hearing audiology in Singapore and offer various tinnitus and hearing loss management strategies. We work alongside other experienced healthcare providers to improve the quality of life of our patients.
To learn more, do not hesitate to get in touch with us!
12 Woodlands Square, #13-73 Woods Square Tower 1, Singapore 737715
MRT NS9 Woodlands
BUS Woodlands Bus Interchange & Woodlands Civic Centre
Mon – Fri 10AM – 6.30PM
Sat 10AM – 1PM
Sun & PH Closed
