Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 8/31/2009

Question
Hi Dr. Jacobson, I'm 53 years old and have had a ringing in my ears for the past 3-4 years that won't go away. On a scale of 1-10 I'd say it's a 6. I can still hear fine but it's just a high pitch ring that is constant and bothersome. I had a full hysterectomy 5 years ago this Oct. and have been told this is a symptom of menopause. I've been told that if it hasn't gone away by now it most likely won't. I went to an audiologist 2 years ago and he told me I suffer from tenatis. Well within the past 4 days I've also started to feel a "fluttering" sensation (much like when you get water in your ear)and it is accompanied by a deep noise much like that of flexing or bowing a piece of sheet metal  inside and out. What can I possibly do to alleviate or stop either of these issues?  I greatly appreciate your response and consideration.

Answer
Hi Maura,
You need to consult an ENT who should evaluate you for stapedial myoclonus (SM).  SM is a rapid contraction of one of the little middle ear muscles and can cause that fluttering sensation.

As for tinnitus being a "symptom of menopause," whoever told you that is mistaken. Tinnitus is an indication of nerve damage.  You need to have a full audiological evaluation to determine the cause of your tinnitus.  

Hope this helps.
Dr. Harriet Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology