How does TMJ affect tinnitus. What are the symptoms of TMJ disorders. Can treating TMJ alleviate tinnitus. What are the potential treatments for TMJ-related tinnitus.

Understanding the Link Between TMJ Disorders and Tinnitus

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and tinnitus, commonly known as ringing in the ears, have been found to have a significant connection. While tinnitus is often associated with age-related or noise-induced hearing loss, emerging research suggests that TMJ disorders may be a root cause in some cases.

A 2018 systematic review and meta-analysis revealed a higher prevalence of tinnitus among individuals with TMJ disorders compared to those without. This correlation may be attributed to the proximity of the inner ear to the temporomandibular joint.

The Anatomy of TMJ and Its Relation to Tinnitus

The temporomandibular joints connect the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull on both sides of the face, directly in front of the ears. These joints play a crucial role in supporting jaw muscles necessary for eating, yawning, and speaking. Due to their location, inflammation or irritation in the TMJ can potentially impact the inner ear structures, including the cochlea, which is responsible for converting sound waves into electrical impulses for the brain to interpret.

Causes and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders can arise from various factors, affecting the ligaments and muscles surrounding the joints. Understanding these causes is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Common Causes of TMJ Disorders

• Teeth grinding (bruxism) during sleep
• Arthritis in the jaw
• Head or neck trauma
• Malocclusion (overbite or underbite)
• Dislocation of the TMJ disk

Recognizing TMJ Disorder Symptoms

Identifying the symptoms of TMJ disorders is crucial for early intervention. Common indicators include:

• Clicking or popping sound in the jaw
• Pain in the jaw and ear
• Headaches
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• Jaws that lock in an open or closed position

The Interplay Between TMJ and Tinnitus: A Closer Look

The relationship between TMJ disorders and tinnitus is complex and multifaceted. Research has shed light on some intriguing patterns and connections between these two conditions.

Demographic Patterns in TMJ-Related Tinnitus

A 2019 research study uncovered interesting demographic trends in TMJ-related tinnitus cases. The study found that this type of tinnitus is more prevalent among younger individuals who were assigned female at birth. These cases often present with severe symptoms, accompanied by pain, pressure, and high stress levels.

Additional Symptoms Associated with TMJ-Related Tinnitus

Individuals experiencing tinnitus related to TMJ disorders may also encounter:

• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Vertigo
• Neck pain
• Reduced quality of life

Somatic Tinnitus: A Distinct Subtype

Tinnitus associated with TMJ disorders is sometimes classified as somatic tinnitus, which is defined as tinnitus caused by musculoskeletal problems. This classification has important implications for treatment approaches and outcomes.

Unique Characteristics of TMJ-Related Tinnitus

Researchers have noted that individuals with both tinnitus and TMJ disorders may represent a specific tinnitus subtype. This distinction is based on the group’s responsiveness to particular treatments and the ability to modulate tinnitus symptoms through head and jaw movements.

Treatment Approaches for TMJ-Related Tinnitus

While more research is needed to firmly establish the connection between TMJ treatment and tinnitus alleviation, several treatment options show promise in addressing both conditions simultaneously.

Non-Invasive Treatment Options

• Medications (muscle relaxants and antidepressants)
• Soft food diet
• Dental treatments, including bite realignment
• Mouth guards to prevent tooth grinding
• Oral splints to realign the eardrum
• Physical therapy to strengthen jaw muscles

Invasive Treatment Options

In more severe cases, invasive treatments may be considered:

• Corticosteroid injections into the joint
• Minimally invasive surgical procedures (e.g., arthrocentesis)
• Open joint surgery (arthrotomy)

The Importance of Professional Evaluation and Treatment

Given the complex nature of TMJ disorders and tinnitus, seeking professional medical advice is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional

Is it time to seek medical help for your TMJ or tinnitus symptoms. Consider consulting a healthcare professional if:

• You experience persistent jaw pain or tinnitus
• Daily activities are impacted by your symptoms
• You feel anxious or depressed due to your condition
• Conservative treatments have not provided relief

Advancements in TMJ and Tinnitus Research

The field of TMJ and tinnitus research is continuously evolving, with new studies shedding light on the intricate relationship between these conditions. Recent advancements have focused on understanding the underlying mechanisms and developing more targeted treatment approaches.

Emerging Treatment Modalities

Researchers are exploring innovative treatment options for TMJ-related tinnitus, including:

• Neurofeedback therapy
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation
• Botulinum toxin injections for muscle relaxation
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy specifically tailored for TMJ and tinnitus patients

The Role of Neuroplasticity in Tinnitus Management

Recent studies have highlighted the potential of neuroplasticity-based treatments in managing tinnitus. These approaches aim to retrain the brain’s response to tinnitus signals, potentially offering long-term relief for patients with TMJ-related tinnitus.

Lifestyle Modifications for TMJ and Tinnitus Management

In addition to medical treatments, certain lifestyle changes can significantly impact the management of TMJ disorders and associated tinnitus.

Stress Reduction Techniques

Stress is known to exacerbate both TMJ symptoms and tinnitus. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques into daily life can be beneficial:

• Mindfulness meditation
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Regular exercise
• Adequate sleep hygiene

Dietary Considerations

Certain dietary modifications may help alleviate TMJ symptoms and potentially impact tinnitus:

• Avoiding hard or chewy foods
• Limiting caffeine intake
• Staying hydrated
• Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into the diet

The Psychological Impact of TMJ and Tinnitus

Living with TMJ disorders and tinnitus can have significant psychological effects on individuals. Understanding and addressing these impacts is crucial for comprehensive patient care.

Coping Strategies for Emotional Well-being

Effective coping strategies can help patients manage the emotional challenges associated with TMJ and tinnitus:

• Support groups and peer counseling
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Mindfulness and relaxation techniques
• Engaging in enjoyable activities to shift focus from symptoms

The Role of Patient Education

Empowering patients with knowledge about their conditions can significantly improve their ability to manage symptoms and adhere to treatment plans. Healthcare providers play a crucial role in educating patients about:

• The nature of TMJ disorders and tinnitus
• The connection between the two conditions
• Available treatment options and their potential outcomes
• Self-management techniques for symptom relief

Integrative Approaches to TMJ and Tinnitus Treatment

As research progresses, there is growing interest in integrative approaches that combine conventional medical treatments with complementary therapies to address TMJ disorders and tinnitus holistically.

Complementary Therapies

Several complementary therapies have shown promise in managing TMJ and tinnitus symptoms:

• Acupuncture
• Massage therapy
• Chiropractic care
• Herbal supplements (under professional guidance)

The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach

Given the complex nature of TMJ disorders and tinnitus, a multidisciplinary treatment approach often yields the best results. This may involve collaboration between:

• Dentists and oral surgeons
• Audiologists
• Neurologists
• Physical therapists
• Pain management specialists
• Mental health professionals

Future Directions in TMJ and Tinnitus Research

The field of TMJ and tinnitus research continues to evolve, with several exciting avenues for future investigation and potential breakthroughs.

Genetic Factors in TMJ Disorders and Tinnitus

Researchers are exploring the genetic components that may predispose individuals to TMJ disorders and tinnitus. Understanding these genetic factors could lead to more personalized treatment approaches and preventive strategies.

Advanced Imaging Techniques

Advancements in imaging technology, such as high-resolution MRI and functional neuroimaging, are providing new insights into the structural and functional changes associated with TMJ disorders and tinnitus. These techniques may lead to more accurate diagnoses and targeted treatments in the future.

Regenerative Medicine Approaches

Emerging research in regenerative medicine, including stem cell therapy and tissue engineering, holds promise for repairing damaged TMJ tissues and potentially addressing underlying causes of TMJ-related tinnitus.

Patient Empowerment and Self-Management

Empowering patients to take an active role in managing their TMJ disorders and tinnitus is crucial for long-term success. Healthcare providers can support patient empowerment through:

Self-Monitoring Tools

Encouraging patients to use symptom tracking apps or journals can help them identify triggers and patterns in their TMJ and tinnitus symptoms. This information can be valuable for both patients and healthcare providers in tailoring treatment plans.

Telemedicine and Remote Monitoring

The rise of telemedicine has made it easier for patients to stay connected with their healthcare providers. Remote monitoring technologies can allow for ongoing assessment and adjustment of treatment plans without the need for frequent in-person visits.

Patient Support Networks

Connecting patients with support groups and online communities can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice for living with TMJ disorders and tinnitus. These networks can serve as a source of shared experiences and coping strategies.

The Economic Impact of TMJ Disorders and Tinnitus

Understanding the economic burden of TMJ disorders and tinnitus is crucial for healthcare policy and resource allocation. This includes considering factors such as:

Direct and Indirect Costs

The economic impact of these conditions extends beyond direct medical costs to include:

• Lost productivity and work absenteeism
• Costs associated with disability and reduced quality of life
• Expenses for over-the-counter treatments and complementary therapies

Cost-Effectiveness of Treatment Options

Evaluating the cost-effectiveness of various treatment approaches for TMJ disorders and tinnitus can help guide clinical decision-making and health policy. This includes considering both short-term costs and long-term outcomes.

Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to TMJ and Tinnitus Management

The relationship between TMJ disorders and tinnitus is complex and multifaceted, requiring a comprehensive and individualized approach to diagnosis and treatment. As research continues to unveil the intricate connections between these conditions, healthcare providers and patients alike must stay informed about the latest developments and treatment options.

By combining medical interventions with lifestyle modifications, psychological support, and patient empowerment strategies, individuals suffering from TMJ-related tinnitus can find relief and improve their quality of life. The future of TMJ and tinnitus management looks promising, with ongoing research paving the way for more targeted and effective treatments.

Ultimately, a holistic approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and social aspects of these conditions offers the best chance for successful management and improved patient outcomes. As our understanding of TMJ disorders and tinnitus continues to grow, so too does the hope for those affected by these challenging conditions.

TMJ Disorders and Tinnitus: Relationship and Treatment

Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is largely associated with age- or noise-related hearing loss. Mounting evidence has found that, in a smaller number of cases, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders may be a root cause of tinnitus instead of hearing loss.

People with subjective tinnitus hear disquieting sounds, such as ringing, buzzing, and humming, that are imperceptible to others. This condition becomes more common as people age and begin to lose their hearing.

In contrast, tinnitus associated with TMJ disorders typically affects a younger demographic. It’s also more common in people who were assigned female at birth than those who were assigned male at birth.

In this article, we explore the connection between tinnitus and TMJ disorders. We also discuss potential treatments that may provide relief for both conditions.

TMJs connect your lower jaw (mandible) to your skull on both sides of your face. These joints are located directly in front of your ears. Your TMJs support the jaw muscles needed for eating, yawning, and speaking.

Causes of TMJ disorders

TMJ disorders are caused by inflammation or irritation of the ligaments and muscles surrounding the joints.

Potential causes include:

• grinding teeth during sleep (bruxism)
• arthritis in the jaw
• trauma to the head or neck
• malocclusion (having an overbite or underbite)
• dislocation of the TMJ disk

Symptoms of TMJ disorders

Symptoms of TMJ disorders include:

• clicking or popping sound in jaw
• pain in the jaw and ear
• headache
• difficulty opening your mouth
• jaws that lock in an open or closed position

A 2018 systematic review and meta-analysis of multiple studies found that the prevalence of tinnitus was higher in people with TMJ disorders than in people without TMJ disorders. This may be due to the proximity of the inner ear to the TMJ.

A part in the inner ear called the cochlea transforms sound waves into electrical impulses that the brain translates into recognizable sounds. Damage to the hair cells in the cochlea is a catalyst for tinnitus.

Because the cochlea is located next to the temporomandibular joint, irritation and inflammation in the joint may damage the cochlea and other parts of the inner ear. This may cause subjective tinnitus.

Subjective vs objective tinnitus

Subjective tinnitus is the most common form of tinnitus. Noises are heard only by a person with tinnitus and are not generated by an exterior sound source.

Objective tinnitus is a rarer form of tinnitus. The sounds are typically caused by internal circulatory functions (blood flow) or defects in the structures of the ear. The sounds may be loud enough to be heard by another person.

Was this helpful?

A 2019 research study found that TMJ and tinnitus often occur together in people who were assigned female at birth and who are younger than the average tinnitus patient.

Tinnitus in this group tends to be severe and accompanied by pain, pressure, and high levels of stress.

Accompanying symptoms include:

• dizziness
• headache
• vertigo
• neck pain
• poor quality of life

Tinnitus related to TMJ disorders is sometimes referred to as a type of somatic tinnitus. Somatic tinnitus is defined as tinnitus that’s caused by a musculoskeletal problem.

Researchers involved in a 2019 study noted that people with tinnitus and TMJ disorders might make up a specific tinnitus subtype. Their reasoning was based on this group’s responsiveness to specific treatments.

A 2012 study noted that people with tinnitus and TMJ disorders were able to reduce tinnitus symptoms through movements of the head and jaw. Music and sound stimulation also had a beneficial effect.

Research data from as far back as 1997 found that treating TMJ disorders helps alleviate tinnitus in people with both conditions. However, recent studies suggest more research is needed to confirm this connection.

Even so, the American Tinnitus Association is in favor of treating TMJ disorders to alleviate tinnitus that’s caused by problems with the joint.

Possible treatments for TMJ disorders

There are several types of treatments for TMJ disorders that may help alleviate both tinnitus and jaw pain. These include:

• medications, such as muscle relaxants and antidepressants
• a soft food diet
• dental treatments, including bite realignment
• mouth guards to prevent tooth grinding
• oral splints to realign the eardrum
• physical therapy to stretch and strengthen jaw muscles
• corticosteroid injections into the joint
• minimally invasive surgical procedures, such as arthrocentesis
• open joint surgery (arthrotomy)

TMJ disorders and tinnitus are challenging conditions that can negatively affect your quality of life. Whether you have TMJ disorders or symptoms of tinnitus in one or both ears, talk with a doctor. This is especially important if you’re having difficulty keeping up with daily activities, or if you feel anxious or depressed.

Treatments exist for both tinnitus and TMJ disorders.

TMJ disorders are often treated by a dental professional. Talk with your current healthcare professional about the type of specialist who’s best suited to treat your symptoms.

Research suggests TMJ disorders are a cause of tinnitus in some instances. People who have both conditions tend to be younger than the average tinnitus patient.

People assigned female at birth also seem to be more affected by TMJ disorders and accompanying tinnitus than people assigned male at birth.

When tinnitus is caused by TMJ disorders, treatments specific to this cause may help alleviate symptoms.

Talk with your doctor or dentist about potential treatments and which may be best suited for you.

TMJ Disorders and Tinnitus: Relationship and Treatment

Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is largely associated with age- or noise-related hearing loss. Mounting evidence has found that, in a smaller number of cases, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders may be a root cause of tinnitus instead of hearing loss.

People with subjective tinnitus hear disquieting sounds, such as ringing, buzzing, and humming, that are imperceptible to others. This condition becomes more common as people age and begin to lose their hearing.

In contrast, tinnitus associated with TMJ disorders typically affects a younger demographic. It’s also more common in people who were assigned female at birth than those who were assigned male at birth.

In this article, we explore the connection between tinnitus and TMJ disorders. We also discuss potential treatments that may provide relief for both conditions.

TMJs connect your lower jaw (mandible) to your skull on both sides of your face. These joints are located directly in front of your ears. Your TMJs support the jaw muscles needed for eating, yawning, and speaking.

Causes of TMJ disorders

TMJ disorders are caused by inflammation or irritation of the ligaments and muscles surrounding the joints.

Potential causes include:

• grinding teeth during sleep (bruxism)
• arthritis in the jaw
• trauma to the head or neck
• malocclusion (having an overbite or underbite)
• dislocation of the TMJ disk

Symptoms of TMJ disorders

Symptoms of TMJ disorders include:

• clicking or popping sound in jaw
• pain in the jaw and ear
• headache
• difficulty opening your mouth
• jaws that lock in an open or closed position

A 2018 systematic review and meta-analysis of multiple studies found that the prevalence of tinnitus was higher in people with TMJ disorders than in people without TMJ disorders. This may be due to the proximity of the inner ear to the TMJ.

A part in the inner ear called the cochlea transforms sound waves into electrical impulses that the brain translates into recognizable sounds. Damage to the hair cells in the cochlea is a catalyst for tinnitus.

Because the cochlea is located next to the temporomandibular joint, irritation and inflammation in the joint may damage the cochlea and other parts of the inner ear. This may cause subjective tinnitus.

Subjective vs objective tinnitus

Subjective tinnitus is the most common form of tinnitus. Noises are heard only by a person with tinnitus and are not generated by an exterior sound source.

Objective tinnitus is a rarer form of tinnitus. The sounds are typically caused by internal circulatory functions (blood flow) or defects in the structures of the ear. The sounds may be loud enough to be heard by another person.

Was this helpful?

A 2019 research study found that TMJ and tinnitus often occur together in people who were assigned female at birth and who are younger than the average tinnitus patient.

Tinnitus in this group tends to be severe and accompanied by pain, pressure, and high levels of stress.

Accompanying symptoms include:

• dizziness
• headache
• vertigo
• neck pain
• poor quality of life

Tinnitus related to TMJ disorders is sometimes referred to as a type of somatic tinnitus. Somatic tinnitus is defined as tinnitus that’s caused by a musculoskeletal problem.

Researchers involved in a 2019 study noted that people with tinnitus and TMJ disorders might make up a specific tinnitus subtype. Their reasoning was based on this group’s responsiveness to specific treatments.

A 2012 study noted that people with tinnitus and TMJ disorders were able to reduce tinnitus symptoms through movements of the head and jaw. Music and sound stimulation also had a beneficial effect.

Research data from as far back as 1997 found that treating TMJ disorders helps alleviate tinnitus in people with both conditions. However, recent studies suggest more research is needed to confirm this connection.

Even so, the American Tinnitus Association is in favor of treating TMJ disorders to alleviate tinnitus that’s caused by problems with the joint.

Possible treatments for TMJ disorders

There are several types of treatments for TMJ disorders that may help alleviate both tinnitus and jaw pain. These include:

• medications, such as muscle relaxants and antidepressants
• a soft food diet
• dental treatments, including bite realignment
• mouth guards to prevent tooth grinding
• oral splints to realign the eardrum
• physical therapy to stretch and strengthen jaw muscles
• corticosteroid injections into the joint
• minimally invasive surgical procedures, such as arthrocentesis
• open joint surgery (arthrotomy)

TMJ disorders and tinnitus are challenging conditions that can negatively affect your quality of life. Whether you have TMJ disorders or symptoms of tinnitus in one or both ears, talk with a doctor. This is especially important if you’re having difficulty keeping up with daily activities, or if you feel anxious or depressed.

Treatments exist for both tinnitus and TMJ disorders.

TMJ disorders are often treated by a dental professional. Talk with your current healthcare professional about the type of specialist who’s best suited to treat your symptoms.

Research suggests TMJ disorders are a cause of tinnitus in some instances. People who have both conditions tend to be younger than the average tinnitus patient.

People assigned female at birth also seem to be more affected by TMJ disorders and accompanying tinnitus than people assigned male at birth.

When tinnitus is caused by TMJ disorders, treatments specific to this cause may help alleviate symptoms.

Talk with your doctor or dentist about potential treatments and which may be best suited for you.

What drugs cause tinnitus?

21
Apr
2019

21 Apr 2019 Causes of subjective tinnitus Diseases, Headaches, Types of tinnitus, Treatment, Tinnitus exacerbation of negative symptoms. Moreover, this point of view is readily confirmed by publications on the Internet and some medical publications. In fact, after careful analysis of patient stories and clinical cases, most of these claims are not confirmed. But not all: there are indeed drugs that are dangerous in terms of exacerbating tinnitus. We will talk about them below.

Article content:

• 1 Some statistics
• 2 Why do people often blame tinnitus on medications?
• 3 Tinnitus
  • 3.1 Acetylsalicylic acid
  • 3.2 Quinine
  • 3.3 Aminoglycoside antibiotics
  • 3.4 Cytotoxic drugs

  900 16 3.5 Diuretics

  • 3.6 Idiosyncratic drug reactions
  • 3.7 Narcotics

Few statistics

Approximately 1 out of 1000 people report the appearance or increase of tinnitus in response to taking a particular drug. So, against the background of other, much more common adverse reactions, tinnitus or ringing in the ears are quite rare.

To a greater extent, such an undesirable phenomenon is typical for the following categories of drugs:

• antihypertensive drugs that reduce blood pressure;
• statins used to treat atherosclerosis;
• antidepressants;
• drugs to reduce anxiety.

The nuance is that arterial hypertension, and atherosclerosis, and depression, often in themselves are the cause of tinnitus. However, some people mistakenly associate tinnitus with drugs used to treat one of these conditions.

Why do people often blame tinnitus on medications?

And at the same time, the vast majority of such statements are not confirmed. There are several reasons for this “inconsistency”.

First, tinnitus itself is a common phenomenon. It is possible that people with mild, inconspicuous tinnitus will take medication for some other reason. And when tinnitus begins to progress, people associate it with medication.

Accusations are made against absolutely harmless drugs.

And when a patient claims that his tinnitus is associated with taking a particular drug, the doctor is required to fill out a statistical notice on this issue and send it to the medical device quality control authority.

Often, such reports of patients are reflected in the instructions for the drug, in the section on side effects. As you can see, not always justified.

Secondly, any drugs are prescribed for the treatment of a particular disease. And illness is stress, which in turn is a common cause of tinnitus. But there are quite a few patients who associate tinnitus with medication rather than stress.

Drugs that cause tinnitus

Despite the small number of false reports, there are medications that can actually lead to noise, ringing in the ears.

Experienced doctors know about such moments. And prescribe such drugs only in case of urgent need, in the absence of an alternative.

Whatever drug is prescribed by the attending physician, it is strictly forbidden to stop taking it or change the dosage on your own. Until you discuss this point with a specialist.

Acetylsalicylic acid

Large doses of aspirin have been shown to cause tinnitus. This feature of the drug is well known and used in scientific practice. For example, when researchers need to provoke tinnitus in laboratory animals.

In standard doses for colds, flu, headaches, and so on, aspirin is safe. And virtually guaranteed not to cause tinnitus. There is also a minimal chance that prophylactic doses of acetylsalicylic acid will cause tinnitus.

Those prescribed for the elderly for the prevention of strokes, heart attacks, thrombosis.

In the past, physicians used large doses of aspirin heavily in rheumatic disease regimens. That’s when tinnitus in patients arose often. The symptom is reversible: after the drug was discontinued or the dose was reduced, everything went away. But the fact turned out to be registered and listed in the instructions for the use of the drug.

In modern medicine, such large doses of aspirin are practically not used in humans. For the treatment of such diseases, alternative drugs with a more pronounced anti-inflammatory effect have been developed.

Aspirin, even in adequate and low doses, can cause reversible tinnitus in people who are too sensitive to it. Such patients should avoid taking acetylsalicylic acid.

Quinine

Quinine and some other antimalarial drugs can sometimes cause damage to the inner ear.

This may occur when the drug is taken in high doses or in long-term treatment settings such as malaria therapy.

However, at low doses sufficient to prevent malaria or relieve nocturnal cramps, the drug is harmless.

In rare cases, when tinnitus occurs even when taking small doses of quinine. After discontinuation of the drug, everything returns to normal.

Aminoglycoside antibiotics

There is a small group of very specialized, potent antimicrobials that can be ototoxic. In other words, they can cause acoustic neuritis and permanently damage the inner ear. Such damage can lead to complete hearing loss. Then some people have tinnitus as a result of hearing loss.

The group is known as aminoglycoside antibiotics and includes streptomycin, gentamicin, kanamycin. The drugs are produced in the form of forms for parenteral (injection) administration. Commonly prescribed in hospitals for injection for severe, life-threatening infections. When pathogens are resistant to any other antibiotics.

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Damage to the inner ear occurs only when the amount of drug in the bloodstream exceeds a certain amount. For this reason, aminoglycoside levels should be closely monitored by regular blood tests. However, there are conditions, such as kidney failure, where drug concentrations can rise unpredictably and reach dangerous levels.

Aminoglycosides are also found in some ear drops. Every patient who is concerned about treatment with these drops should discuss this issue with their doctor.

Tell your doctor immediately if you develop tinnitus during treatment with aminoglycosides. Unfortunately, damage to the auditory nerve in such cases is irreversible.

Cytotoxic drugs

Another group of drugs that can easily damage the inner ear are cytotoxic drugs. They are used in the treatment of malignant diseases and some autoimmune processes. However, we note that such drugs rarely show ototoxicity.

The main group of cytotoxic drugs that can damage the ear is the group containing platinum. Cisplatin is dangerous, to a lesser extent – carboplatin and oxaliplatin.

Specialist physicians who prescribe these drugs are well aware of their potential side effects. And usually this issue is discussed in detail with the patient before the start of treatment. Where possible, people on cytostatics are encouraged to have their hearing checked regularly. This allows any damage to the ear to be detected at an early stage. That is, before any major deterioration occurs.

Diuretics

Occasionally ototoxic effects have been observed with loop diuretics.

These drugs are used to increase urine output in treatment regimens for hypertension, heart failure, and some kidney diseases.

Hearing impairment and tinnitus improve after dose reduction or withdrawal of loop diuretics.

But if other ototoxic drugs were included in the treatment regimen, then the resulting changes can become irreversible. As in the case of acoustic neuritis during treatment with aminoglycosides.

Idiosyncratic drug reactions

We know that the vast majority of drugs do not cause tinnitus in the majority of patients. However, there is a small group of people who will give an unexpected or idiosyncratic reaction to any medication. This is called idiosyncrasy or individual intolerance.

Any patient who suspects that a drug has caused an idiosyncratic reaction should discuss the matter with their physician. In such cases, an alternative drug is selected. Or, if there is no alternative to the drug, the dosage is changed.

Narcotic substances

It is known that drugs are extremely harmful and dangerous. However, there is no evidence that marijuana, cocaine, or heroin use increases the risk of developing tinnitus.