Tinnitus & Management Flashcards
What is tinnitus?
The perception of sounds in the absence of external stimuli
Includes buzzing, hissing, roaring, clicking & whistling
What is objective tinnitus? (4)
Very uncommon
Often pulsatile
Blood related
Sound produced by structure in or around ear may be heard by an examiner
What is subjective tinnitus? (Most common)
Sound is only perceived by the patient
What are the variations of tinnitus? (9)
- unilateral / bilateral
- temporary / permanent
- constant / occasional
- high / low pitch
- distressing / not bothersome
- with or without a hearing loss
- intermittent or continuous
- pulsatile
- can vary in loudness
What are the common risk factors for tinnitus? (7)
Working in loud places
Musicians
Smoking
Military personnel past and present
Some meds
Folic acid deficiency
Wax pressing against TM
What are the possible tinnitus treatment? (6)
Hearing aids (of loss present)
Counselling and rehab
Tinnitus masking devices
Tinnitus retraining therapy
Noise generators
Psychological treatment
