Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 5/6/2008

Question
I am a 53 year old lady who recently am experiencing sounds during the night similar to the vibration of an air conditioner. However I have noticed that when there is another sound around this noise stops until the other noise clears and then when it starts again. This condition is very annoying and I am spending many sleepless nights as this noise keeps humming in my left ear. Can you please tell me what to do about it. With much appreciation.

Answer
Hi Maria,
What you are describing is called "tinnitus" (tin-e-tus).  Tinnitus is noise in the ear or ears that doesn't come from anything on the outside.  It can sound like bells whistling, crickets, steam or blood pumping.  Tinnitus is a symptom that there is some damage in the hearing system.  It usually is most noticeable - and annoying - at night when it's quiet and there is no other noise to mask it - or cover it up.  That's probably why you don't notice it during the day. Tinnitus can be caused by any number of things, even a wax buildup. So, the first thing you must do is see an audiologist who can look inside your ears and give you a hearing test.  Once you have that test, you should see an ear specialist who will determine if there is a medical problem that can be treated.  If the doctor rules out any treatable condition, then there are several things that you can do to cope with the noise.  One of the newer things out there is a treatment called Neuromonics.  Here is the website: www.neuromonics.com.  Also check out the American Tinnitus Association at: ata.org.  Until you can get treatment, you can try playing the radio or listening to music at night until you fall asleep.
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified Doctor of Audiology