Does Tinnitus Differ With Age?

Tinnitus can be uncomfortable and can cause symptoms that could affect your life. Some might wonder if age causes any effect on the problem. At Chicago Beltone, we are here to help with all your hearing problems or questions. Read below to answer your questions about age’s impact on your hearing.

Tinnitus Overview

Tinnitus is a consistent, loud ringing in the ears. Researchers estimate that about 50 million Americans have this condition.

Causes

The factors that cause this can vary. The most common cause is exposure to loud noises. Those who work in the aviation industry are at an increased risk of developing the condition. Tinnitus might also occur following certain injuries to the heck, neck and ears. It can also be from malformations of a part of the ear and ear infections. Rarely, tinnitus can happen from more serious illnesses like tumors.

Symptoms

The most obvious sign of tinnitus is a constant, high-pitched ringing or humming. It can also come in the form of hissing or buzzing. Tinnitus can be persistent or intermittent. Tinnitus only occurs in one ear. For many people, symptoms worsen during the evening or other quiet times. In certain cases, tinnitus can be so severe that it could affect a person’s daily activities.

The Age Factor

Specialists say that tinnitus is most often seen in those age 50 and older. Tinnitus can and often does present itself at any age. Research suggests that age might play an important role in people with tinnitus. This is in correlation with varying degrees of hearing loss. Tinnitus Hub performed a study that found those exact findings. The organization surveyed 30,000 people ranging from under 18 to 75. As the person got older, they were more likely to have tinnitus with some other form of hearing loss. That said, a larger percentage of older subjects said that they had fewer life quality issues.

Conclusion

Tinnitus has no known cure. Specific therapeutic protocols will depend upon the underlying cause and it’s severity. Identifying and managing symptoms can lead those with tinnitus to have a better life.

Contact Us

If you have tinnitus, please contact one of our Beltone hearing care locations in Chicago. Our hearing care team can help you manage your symptoms to make living with tinnitus easier.