Ringing in the ears, a symptom called tinnitus, occurs as a result of an underlying medical condition, such as ear trauma, structural abnormalities or growths in the ear. Although in most cases the underlying cause of tinnitus is not a serious condition, the constant ringing is bothersome and can interfere with daily life.
Meniere's Disease
The labyrinth is a portion of the inner ear filled with fluid called endolymph, which aids in maintaining balance. Meniere’s disease is a condition characterized by a change in volume or composition of endolymph. The cause of the fluid change is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The most common symptom of Meniere’s disease is vertigo, which is a sudden and intense spinning sensation that can cause nausea, vomiting and excess sweating. Other symptoms of Meniere’s disease include ringing in the ears and feelings of fullness and pressure in the ears. Symptoms of Meniere’s disease often occur in attacks of varying frequency and intensity, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Treatment for Meniere’s disease focuses on reducing the amount of water in the body. This is done with the use of diuretics and following low-salt diet.
Acoustic Neuroma
An acoustic neuroma is a benign tumor that grows on the nerve that runs from the brain to the inner ear. The cause of an acoustic neuroma is unknown. Symptoms include gradual hearing loss, ringing in the affected ear, dizziness, loss of balance, facial numbness and facial weakness. Small acoustic neuromas often don’t require treatment. In these cases, the tumors will be monitored with the use of regular hearing and imaging tests. If the tumor begins to grow, treatment may become necessary. For acoustic neuromas that do require treatment, there are two options: stereotactic radiosurgery and surgical removal. Stereotactic radiosurgery is a process in which radiation is delivered directly to the tumor to stop growth. Surgical removal of the tumor requires entrance through the skull and recovery time is approximately six weeks, according to Mayo Clinic.
Otosclerosis
Otosclerosis is a condition in which sponge-like bone grows in the middle ear. The growth prevents normal ear vibrations that are responsible for sound. The cause of otosclerosis is unknown, but it is believed to be a result of genetics. Symptoms of otosclerosis include gradual hearing loss and ringing in the ears. The only known effective treatment for otosclerosis is called stapedectomy, according to Medline Plus. During a stapedectomy, a portion of the ear called the stapes is removed and replaced with a prosthetic. This will allow for normal ear vibrations and cure the hearing loss and ringing associated with otosclerosis.
