What is Trauma-Associated Tinnitus?

Understanding the Causes of Tinnitus

Tinnitus is characterized by experiencing ringing or other similar noises in one or both ears. While it’s a common condition, affecting around 15% of the population according to the American Tinnitus Association (ATA), it shouldn’t be ignored as it can cause permanent hearing loss. Usually, tinnitus is caused by an underlying condition, but injuries to the head and neck can also cause tinnitus. Here’s what you need to know.

How Can Head and Neck Injuries Cause Tinnitus?

When you have a head or neck injury, your nerves or brain may be injured. If the injury affects the parts connected to hearing function, it may cause tinnitus. Due to the brain’s sensitivity, injuries in one area can still affect hearing if there is significant swelling.

More than 53% of patients who experience a traumatic brain injury report experiencing tinnitus, according to a study by The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). These patients tend to have a more significant impact on their day-to-day routine. Those who have been in a motor vehicle accident may have experienced loud noises and a violent impact — both of which can cause tinnitus. Even if there are no visible cuts or bruises, conditions such as whiplash or concussions may also be the cause of tinnitus.

When Should You Seek Medical Attention?

If you have been involved in a car crash, you should seek medical attention even if you think you are physically fine. Symptoms of tinnitus include:

• Ringing, buzzing, clicking, hissing, etc. sounds
• Partial or decreased hearing
• Earaches and pain
• Nasal congestion
• Headaches
• Anxiety and depression
• Difficulty sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating

How is Tinnitus Diagnosed?

Your doctor will likely conduct a physical examination in which they will check your ears, nose, oral cavity, and cranial nerve function. They may also perform a hearing test called an audiogram. Seeking medical attention after a crash is critical to ensure any injuries do not get overlooked. In addition, when pursuing a personal injury claim for an accident, having good medical documentation is critical.

When You Need Help After Suffering a Severe Injury

Serious injuries need strong attorneys. If you have suffered severe injuries due to another’s negligence, we are here to be your advocate when you need us. We’ll stop at nothing to ensure you receive the most successful outcome possible.

Contact } today at (417) 887-4300. For challenging legal matters, we are here for you every step of the way.