I Only Hear Tinnitus In One Ear - What Does That Mean?

MindEar gives you the ability to talk to a tinnitus professional about your tinnitus and what the next steps of actions should be on your tinnitus journey.

Tinnitus is the perception of sound in one or both ears or in the head, without any external sound source. If you are experiencing tinnitus in one ear, it could be a sign of various underlying conditions, including:

Underlying conditions for unilateral tinnitus:

1. Ear infection: An ear infection can cause inflammation in the ear canal, which can lead to tinnitus in the affected ear.
2. Earwax buildup: Earwax buildup can cause pressure on the eardrum, which can cause tinnitus in the affected ear.
3. Middle or External ear disorders: middle ear disorders such as otosclerosis and external bony growth in the ear canal can sometimes cause tinnitus in the affected ear.
4. Noise-induced hearing loss: A noise-induced unilateral hearing loss, meaning hearing loss in one ear, or that one ear is worse than the other, can lead to tinnitus in the affected ear. Unilateral hearing losses are common in activities such as gun shooting, where one ear is fully exposed and the other ear slightly more protected.
5. Meniere's disease: This is a disorder of the inner ear that can cause tinnitus, vertigo, and hearing loss. If you experience tinnitus and dizziness make sure to consult with your hearing healthcare professional.
6. Acoustic neuroma: This is a benign tumor that grows on the nerve that connects the ear to the brain and can cause tinnitus in one ear.
7. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ): TMJ can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, which can radiate to the ear and cause tinnitus.

It's important to speak with a healthcare professional if you are experiencing tinnitus of any type, including in one ear, as they can help identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

Overall, a thorough evaluation of your medical history, a physical exam, and hearing test is typically required to diagnose tinnitus and determine the underlying cause of the condition.