What Causes High Frequency Ringing Sound In Both Ears?

Posted on Thu, 7 Jul 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 7 Jul 2016 Answered on

Mon, 25 Jul 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I constantly hear a high frequency ringing sound in both my ears. This has been happening for around 3-4 years now and started when I used to play in a rock band without using ear protection. It gets drowned out in the usual noise during the day and I have learnt to tune it out during the night. However I can hear it if I pay attention to it. Am I suffering from tinnitus? Can it be cured by reducing exposure to loud noises for a long time or is it something I'll have to live with.

Answered by Dr. Abubakar Siddiqh (8 hours later)

Brief Answer:
The seems to be sensorineural hearing loss.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I had gone through your question and understand your concerns that you are having ringing sensation in ears.

Based on your clinical details, it appears to be sensorineural hearing loss secondary to high frequency sounds.

I suggest you to do otoscopy and hearing tests ( pure tone audio gram and impedance audiometry) to know the cause of ringing in ears from an Ent surgeon.

Yes. You can protect your ears, by avoiding exposure to loud sounds.

Hope this answers your question, if you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.

Wishing you good health.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Abubakar Siddiqh (13 hours later)

Thank you for your prompt response. If it is mild, can sensorineural hearing loss be cured or is it permanent? Will protecting my ears reduce the intensity of my current condition or would it be preventive of further damage only?

Answered by Dr. Abubakar Siddiqh (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Sudden - temporary

Detailed Answer:
Hello again,

Thanks for considering my answer and for your follow up.

Answers for your queries.

1. Yes. It's permanent, in progressive sensorineural hearing loss. In case of sudden hearing loss, treatment will help in regaining the hearing.

2. Yes. You need to protect your ears from high intensity sounds, so that, on going further damage can be stopped.

All the best. Take care.

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina