Managing the hum : Your online pharmacy selection

Buzzing, often described as an auditory sensation of noise or sound in the ears with no apparent external source, affects a wide range of the population. The phenomenon can be temporary or chronic, depending on its cause and management.

What is hum?

Buzzing is a perception of noise or sound in the ears or head without any external sound source. It is often described as a whistling, snoring or ticking sound. This symptom can affect quality of life and requires thorough understanding for effective management.

What are the main causes of ringing?

The causes of ringing vary widely, including :

• Age-related hearing loss or exposure to loud noises.
• Ear obstruction due to wax build-up or ear infection.
• Circulatory disorders, affecting blood circulation in the ears.
• Ototoxic drugs, with side effects affecting hearing.
• Dental and jaw problems, such as TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder).

How is hum diagnosed?

Diagnosing buzzing involves a full examination by an ENT specialist. This may include:

• Audiogram to test hearing.
• MRI or CT scan to rule out structural abnormalities.
• Blood tests to detect underlying disorders.

What are the treatment methods?

Hum treatment focuses on the underlying cause:

• Medical treatment for infections or conditions affecting blood circulation.
• Hearing aids or noise masks for people with hearing loss.
• Auditory rehabilitation therapy to help manage the perception of ringing.
• Meditation and cognitive-behavioral therapy to reduce the impact of hum on quality of life.

Can hum be prevented?

Hum prevention involves :

• Hearing protection in noisy environments.
• Stress management.
• Avoiding the use of ototoxic substances.
• Regular consultation with a hearing care specialist.

Is ringing a sign of more serious health problems?

Although ringing is generally a benign symptom, it can sometimes signal more serious conditions such as cardiovascular disorders, tumors or neurological disorders. A medical consultation is recommended for an accurate diagnosis.

How does stress affect buzzing?

Stress is a significant factor that can exacerbate buzzing. It affects the nervous system and can aggravate noise perception. Stress management through meditation, yoga or cognitive-behavioral therapy can reduce the intensity of buzzing. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and incorporating relaxation techniques are also recommended to alleviate this symptom.

Are there any effective natural remedies for buzzing?

While there is no universal cure for buzzing, some natural remedies can help relieve symptoms. Zinc supplements, ginkgo biloba and vitamin B12 are often cited, although their effectiveness requires further research. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any natural treatment to ensure there are no contraindications with your medical condition or other medications.

Can diet influence buzzing?

Yes, diet can influence buzzing. Certain foods and substances, such as caffeine, alcohol, salt and added sugars, can intensify symptoms in some people. We recommend adopting a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and limiting consumption of these substances to see if symptoms improve.

What is the link between ringing and hearing loss?

Buzzing is often associated with hearing loss. Hearing loss can cause a change in activity in the brain's nerve centers that process sound, resulting in buzzing. Hearing aids and noise maskers can help reduce the perception of ringing by improving hearing or providing a background sound that masks internal noise.

Can hum be cured for good?

Whether buzzing can be cured permanently depends on its underlying cause. If the ringing is due to a treatable condition, such as an ear infection or wax build-up, treating it can eliminate the ringing. However, in many cases where the cause is unknown or linked to irreversible damage, treatment is aimed at managing symptoms rather than curing the problem completely.