From Steady Tinnitus Tone to Screeching and Popping

[mikem]

About ten years ago, a rifle went off just a couple of inches from my left ear. I was left with tinnitus, a somewhat loud and steady tone that I eventually got used to over the years.

In the past few months, though, it has become much worse. I still hear the original tone, but now there are intermittent, very loud screeching and popping sounds over it. I cannot concentrate or focus. My head feels full and exhausted. I get headaches. It is hard to sleep. This is affecting my job and my life.

I am now seeing a second audiology clinic. I have had an MRI and physical therapy, but so far nothing has helped. It is maddening. The ENT doctor at the first clinic told me there was nothing he could do, basically just said sorry and good luck. I hope that will not be the case at the next one. I have an appointment there next week.

I also have a teleconference with Lenire scheduled, but it seems like a scam. I am not even sure I have a specific question, I just wanted to write out what I am going through. I really feel for anyone else who is suffering from this. I cannot imagine anything worse.

Thank you for reading.

 

[billie48]

Welcome to the forum. The intermittent popping sound may be caused by TTTS. You might want to search previous discussions on TTTS or use AI to look up "TTTS tinnitus" and see if you find symptoms similar to your case. Best wishes, and may your recovery be smooth and complete.

 

[mikem]

Thank you, that makes perfect sense. Now I at least understand it better, and maybe even have some options.