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How is Tinnitus diagnosed?

See how Tinnitus is diagnosed. Which specialists are essential to meet, what tests are needed and other useful information for the diagnosis of Tinnitus

Tinnitus diagnosis

How is Tinnitus diagnosed?


Tinnitus is a condition characterized by the perception of sound in the absence of any external sound source. It can manifest as ringing, buzzing, hissing, or other similar sounds in the ears. If you suspect you have tinnitus, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. The diagnosis of tinnitus typically involves a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying cause and severity of the condition.



Medical History


The first step in diagnosing tinnitus is a detailed medical history. Your healthcare provider will ask you questions about your symptoms, such as the type of sound you hear, its intensity, duration, and any factors that may worsen or alleviate the symptoms. They will also inquire about your overall health, medical conditions, medications you are taking, and any exposure to loud noises or trauma that may have triggered the tinnitus.



Physical Examination


After taking your medical history, your healthcare provider will perform a physical examination, focusing on your head, neck, and ears. They will check for any visible abnormalities, such as earwax blockage or signs of infection. They may also assess your hearing ability to determine if there are any associated hearing loss or other auditory problems.



Hearing Tests


Hearing tests, also known as audiometric tests, are crucial in diagnosing tinnitus. These tests evaluate your hearing ability and help identify any hearing loss or abnormalities in the auditory system. The most common hearing test is called pure-tone audiometry, where you wear headphones and listen to tones at different frequencies and volumes. You will indicate when you hear the tones, allowing the healthcare provider to create an audiogram, which is a graph showing your hearing thresholds.



Imaging Tests


In some cases, imaging tests may be necessary to rule out any structural abnormalities or underlying conditions that could be causing tinnitus. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomography (CT) scans can provide detailed images of the head, neck, and ears, helping to identify any tumors, blood vessel abnormalities, or other issues that may contribute to tinnitus.



Additional Tests


Depending on the suspected cause of tinnitus, additional tests may be recommended. These can include:



  • Tympanometry: This test measures the movement of the eardrum in response to changes in air pressure, helping to assess middle ear function.

  • Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) test: This test measures the sounds emitted by the inner ear in response to a sound stimulus, providing information about the health of the cochlea.

  • Blood tests: Blood tests may be conducted to check for underlying medical conditions, such as thyroid problems or autoimmune disorders, which can contribute to tinnitus.



Consultation with Specialists


If the cause of tinnitus remains unclear or if further investigation is required, your healthcare provider may refer you to a specialist, such as an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) or an audiologist. These specialists have expertise in diagnosing and treating tinnitus and can provide more specialized tests and evaluations.



Keeping a Tinnitus Diary


During the diagnostic process, it can be helpful to keep a tinnitus diary to track your symptoms. Note down the intensity and frequency of the sounds you hear, as well as any factors that may influence the tinnitus, such as stress, certain foods, or exposure to loud noises. This information can assist your healthcare provider in understanding your condition better and developing an appropriate treatment plan.



In conclusion, diagnosing tinnitus involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, hearing tests, and sometimes imaging or additional specialized tests. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and to determine the most suitable treatment options for managing tinnitus.


Diseasemaps
2 answers
Usually you know as it is pretty easy to tell,especially since it doesn't go away.But going to an ENT doctor confirms this diagnosis.

Posted Jul 23, 2018 by Rachelle 1100

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