How Can You Stop Ear Noise?

Constant Noise in the Ear

There are a number of possible conditions that will cause a constant noise in ear that shouldn't be there. But by far, the most common of these is a condition called tinnitus. It is more commonly known as "ringing in the ears." 

Although tinnitus is often characterized by a ringing sound, the noise could also be more like clicking, hissing, or even a "whoosh." This constant noise in the ear can grow so loud and be so distracting that normal everyday activities become difficult. Tinnitus can literally keep you awake at night.

But more importantly, regardless of what kind of constant noise in the ear tinnitus causes, it can be associated with hearing loss, and it's also, sometimes, a symptom of other health problems.

Causes of constant noise in the ear Just as there are different kinds of noise created by tinnitus in the ear, there are different causes. The most common are

• Long term exposure to loud noise or high volume music. Some well-known rock stars developed tinnitus as they got into their 50's.
• Taking certain kinds of medicine. More than 200 different types may cause noise in the ear as a side effect.
• Hearing loss: people who already have hearing challenges often get tinnitus too.

Other health problems associated with tinnitus include a variety of allergies, certain types of cancer, heart and blood vessel problems, and disorders or injuries of the jaws and neck.

Can you stop constant ear noise? There are a number of ways you can fight tinnitus, but depending on the severity of your case, it may not be possible to stop ear noise completely.

A hearing aid is often the first step in ear noise treatment. Since many people who have tinnitus also suffer from hearing loss, a hearing aid helps them hear the sounds they need to hear by making those sounds louder. The more you're able to hear what you want to hear, the less you'll notice constant noise from tinnitus.

Electronic devices called "maskers" are also available. These don't stop ear noise completely, but they make ear noise seem softer by covering it with other, more pleasant sounds (like ocean waves, a babbling brook, or a water fountain). These can be especially helpful when you're trying to sleep.

There are certain medicines and drugs that can ease constant noise in the ear. Some have side effects though, so talk to your doctor about the best options for you.

Another type of ear noise treatment is called tinnitus retraining therapy. This treatment employs a combination of counseling and maskers. It helps you learn, basically, to ignore your tinnitus. It takes a while for this type of ear noise treatment to show results, but it works for some people. Counseling is important for people with tinnitus because hearing constant noise in your ear all day long can cause anxiety and depression. Support groups can be helpful.

Finally, as hard as it may be, it helps to just try to relax. Constant ear noise from tinnitus is frustrating, but anger and resentment about it just seems to make it worse. As with many other things, attitude can sometimes be as effective as treatment.