Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no sound is present. Around 10% of American adults have experienced tinnitus symptoms lasting at least five minutes in the past year.
Unilateral tinnitus is a form of tinnitus where a person only has tinnitus symptoms in one ear.
Causes for Unilateral Tinnitus
A variety of factors can cause tinnitus symptoms in one ear, including medical conditions, injuries and hearing loss.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Ear infections and blockages
- Hearing loss
- Ménière’s disease: This disorder affects the inner ear’s fluid balance and can cause tinnitus, vertigo and hearing loss
- Injuries
- Blood vessel disorders, causing pulsatile tinnitus
Managing Symptoms
If you experience persistent tinnitus in one ear it’s best to see a hearing specialist. A hearing specialist can run diagnostic testing to best determine the cause and suggest options for managing symptoms.
Management options vary based on the specific cause and may include:
- Earwax Removal or treatment for infections
- Management of hearing loss, including hearing aids
- Sound therapy
- Medications
- Surgical interventions (when tinnitus is linked to underlying medical conditions)
When to See a Specialist
If you experience tinnitus in only one ear, especially when accompanied by hearing loss or balance issues, it’s important to see a hearing specialist.
Early diagnosis can help with early intervention. Contact Rancho Santa Fe Audiology to schedule an appointment today.
