Tinnitus, a condition characterised by the perception of sound in the ears or head without an external source, can manifest in different ways, including ringing, buzzing, hissing, or whistling sounds. One of the most common questions people have about tinnitus is whether it can come and go. The answer is yes—tinnitus can fluctuate in intensity and frequency for many individuals, and it is not uncommon for the condition to be intermittent.
Causes of Intermittent Tinnitus
Several factors can influence whether tinnitus comes and goes. Understanding these causes can help in managing and reducing the episodes.
Noise Exposure
One of the primary triggers for tinnitus is exposure to loud noises, which can damage the delicate structures in the ear, particularly the hair cells of the cochlea. For individuals frequently exposed to loud environments, such as concerts, heavy machinery, or even loud music through headphones, tinnitus may appear temporarily and subside after a while. This intermittent occurrence may be due to the ear’s natural recovery process from acoustic trauma.Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety are known to exacerbate tinnitus symptoms. For some people, tinnitus may come and go depending on their mental and emotional state. During periods of high stress, the perception of tinnitus can increase, while during calmer times, the tinnitus may diminish or disappear altogether. This fluctuating pattern highlights the connection between tinnitus and the brain’s response to stress.Health Conditions
Certain health conditions can contribute to the appearance and disappearance of tinnitus. For example, ear infections, sinus problems, or blockages caused by earwax can lead to temporary episodes of tinnitus that resolve once the underlying issue is treated. Additionally, conditions such as Meniere's disease, which affects the inner ear, can cause tinnitus that comes and goes along with other symptoms like vertigo and hearing loss.Changes in Blood Pressure
Fluctuations in blood pressure, whether due to stress, diet, or underlying cardiovascular conditions, can influence the severity and occurrence of tinnitus. In particular, high blood pressure can increase the perception of tinnitus, causing it to appear intermittently. Managing blood pressure through lifestyle changes or medication can often reduce these episodes.Medications
Some medications, particularly ototoxic drugs (which can damage the ear), can cause tinnitus as a side effect. These medications include certain antibiotics, diuretics, and chemotherapy drugs. In some cases, stopping the medication can cause tinnitus to subside, but it may return if the drug is reintroduced.
Why Does Tinnitus Come and Go?
The intermittent nature of tinnitus can be attributed to how various factors affect the auditory system and the brain’s interpretation of sound. For many people, the brain can “filter out” tinnitus when they are not focused on it, especially when environmental noise masks the internal sound. In quieter moments, such as at night or when stressed, the brain may become more aware of the tinnitus, causing it to return.
In addition, certain activities or behaviours may temporarily make tinnitus worse, such as consuming alcohol, caffeine, or nicotine, which can affect blood flow and neurological activity. Once these substances are metabolised or reduced in the body, tinnitus may lessen or disappear.
Managing Intermittent Tinnitus
If tinnitus comes and goes, it’s essential to identify possible triggers and manage them effectively. Protecting the ears from loud noises, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and leading a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the frequency and intensity of tinnitus episodes. If tinnitus is related to an underlying health condition, treating that condition may bring relief.
For some, tinnitus may always be a part of life, but with proper management strategies, the perception of the sound can become less intrusive, allowing individuals to live more comfortably with the condition.
