If you experience ringing or buzzing in one or both ears, you may have tinnitus. In my other article, I discuss the different causes and treatments for tinnitus. The purpose of this article is to investigate research that links COVID-19 to tinnitus.
Analyzing The Facts
In a systematic review of hearing-related symptoms post-coronavirus published by the International Journal of Audiology, nearly 15 percent of patients reported tinnitus. However, the authors do mention this number may be overestimated.
Although scientists are learning more about how the novel coronavirus affects the body, much remains to be discovered. According to Kevin Munro, Au.D., a professor of audiology at the UK’s Manchester Center for Audiology and Deafness, coronavirus affects other organs and systems beyond the respiratory.
In December 2020, Munro conducted a study looking for audio-vestibular symptoms associated with the coronavirus. When this study was completed early during the pandemic, researchers were unable to find any symptoms related to severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) or Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS).
However, this time, Murs discovers that an estimated:
7.6% of people report hearing loss
14.8% report tinnitus
7.2% report vertigo
However, the study lacked control groups, leading to the possibility of error. Yet, a connection between tinnitus and COVID-19 is not implausible.
Other Factors
If COVID-19 does not directly cause tinnitus, it may cause it indirectly through lifestyle changes. During the pandemic, people experienced huge changes in their daily routines. Their social activity, sleep schedules, and diet may have dramatically worsened. These factors play a role in one’s auditory health as well as other physical fitness. To ensure your body remains strong and fit in all areas, be sure to get adequate sleep, exercise, nutrition, and hydration. Also, be sure to ease stress through social activity and daily sunshine.
What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is a condition in which a person hears ringing, buzzing, hissing, or other sounds in their ears that are not caused by an external source. It can be constant or intermittent and vary in pitch and loudness. Tinnitus is often a symptom of an underlying condition, such as hearing loss, ear injury, or a circulatory system disorder. While it can be annoying or even distressing, there are treatments and strategies to help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.
Signs and Symptoms of Tinnitus
Tinnitus is characterized by hearing sounds that aren’t present in the environment. Common signs and symptoms include a persistent or intermittent ringing, buzzing, hissing, or roaring noise in one or both ears. Some people may also experience clicking or humming sounds. The severity of these sounds can vary, and they may be more noticeable in quiet settings or at night. Tinnitus can also be accompanied by other symptoms such as ear pain, dizziness, or hearing loss. In some cases, it can lead to sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, and emotional distress.
Consider the Options
If you are experiencing hearing issues after recovering from COVID-19, it’s important to consult an experienced audiologist without delay. These auditory problems could be a result of the virus, and a professional assessment can help determine the cause and extent of your hearing loss. At Inman Audiology, our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive evaluations and personalized advice to address your concerns. We are here to guide you through the process, offering the support and solutions you need to improve your hearing and overall quality of life.
References
Almufarrij, Ibrahim and Kevin J. Munro. “One Year On: An Updated Systematic Review of SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 and Audio-vestibular Symptoms.” International Journal of Audiology. Published March 22, 2021. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/ 14992027.2021.1896793?journalCode=iija20.
Madeleine Burry. “COVID-19 and Tinnitus: What’s the Connection?” Healthyhearing.com. Published June 7, 2021. https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/53206-Covid- tinnitus-and-coronavirus