Temporary Tinnitus
Q: The other day after taking an aerobics class, I noticed a weird buzzing
in my ears. It went away after about half an hour, but it was really distracting
and kind of scary too. What could have caused it and am I going deaf?
Dr. Donnica: How loud was the music in that class? It sounds like you experienced
short-term tinnitus, a condition characterized by ringing, buzzing or crackling
noises in the ear. Temporary bouts can occur after exposure to loud noise or physical
jarring during exercise, which may disrupt the delicate cells inside the ear.
While this may have been an isolated episode, chronic tinnitus can occur after
a single exposure to really loud noise, so consider wearing earplugs in loud environments
such as concerts, clubs or near construction sites. And if the buzzing returns,
see your doctor. Other possible causes may include ear infection, earwax compaction,
certain medications or even high blood pressure or thyroid problems.
Created: 2/7/2006 - Donnica Moore, M.D.
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