Tinnitus Following a Respiratory Virus

Has anyone developed tinnitus (with no previous history) following a respiratory infection (sore throat, fever, coughing, fatigue, congestion with a feeling of pressure in ears) that persisted for weeks?

I went to an ENT who could not find anything wrong, and I had to take a hearing test, which proved my hearing was perfect.

This has been going on for six weeks now.

 

Maybe your tinnitus was caused by a medication you took during the time you were sick?

 

No, I didn't take anything except some OTC cold medications which I have taken before, so I'm sure that's not it.

 

Respiratory infections can cause inflammation of the nerves in the ear. I would ask if you can go on a course of steroids to see if that might help.

 

Yes, I read that. If it is a nerve issue, how long will it take for my ears to heal?

I will ask my GP about the course of steroids.

Thanks.

 

I had sudden tinnitus onset after what appeared to be a mild cold. It has remained on for more than a year. My hearing is also nearly perfect, even in the upper frequencies.

Unfortunately, my ENT did not mention steroids at the time, so I don't know if they would've helped.

 

Did you have COVID-19? Tinnitus is a common (unfortunate) side effect of infection.

 

It may have been COVID-19. My symptoms were similar to the newest variant, or it could have just been a bad cold. While researching this online, I read that tinnitus can be a side effect of COVID-19. I still have it, but the volume has slowly decreased in my ears.

 

I'm glad to hear it's decreasing. I hope it continues that way for you. Many people do find it diminishes over time. If you're already seeing improvements after a few months, that's really good news.

 

Thank you.

 

Tinnitus is such a complex matter. Anything can bring it on and further annoy it. Getting sick or having inflammation can possibly cause it as well. From my decades of experience, if your tinnitus is not from noise-induced matters, then your chances of recovery could be better. I'd give it time and let your body recover.

 

Thank you...