Objective tinnitus is a medical condition that affects hearing. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /əbˈdʒɛktɪv tɪˈnaɪtəs/. The first syllable, /əb/, is pronounced with a schwa sound, while the following syllable, /ˈdʒɛktɪv/, is pronounced "juh-ktiv". The final syllable, /tɪˈnaɪtəs/, is pronounced with a short i sound and emphasis on the second syllable. The spelling of objective tinnitus reflects its objective nature, as the sounds are measurable and can be heard by others.
Objective tinnitus is a medical condition characterized by the perception of sound within the ear, which can be heard by both the affected individual and by others in close proximity. Unlike subjective tinnitus, which is only heard by the person experiencing it, objective tinnitus produces sound that can be measured and detected by medical professionals through physical examination.
The sounds experienced in objective tinnitus are typically rhythmic, such as pulsations or clicking noises. They can vary in intensity and pitch, sometimes resembling a heartbeat or swooshing sound. The noises can be constant or intermittent, and their occurrence is not influenced by external stimuli.
Objective tinnitus is often associated with underlying physiological abnormalities, usually involving blood vessels or the muscular system. This can include vascular disorders, such as abnormal blood flow in the arteries or veins, or conditions affecting the muscles in the middle ear. Other potential causes include certain medications, head or neck injuries, or neurological disorders.
Diagnosis of objective tinnitus typically involves a thorough medical examination, including a detailed medical history, physical examination, and various audiological tests. The aim is to identify the underlying cause and determine the most appropriate treatment approach. Treatment options may include addressing the underlying condition, medication, sound therapy, or in rare cases, surgical intervention.
Objective tinnitus can cause significant distress and impact the quality of life, leading to sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, and emotional distress. Seeking medical attention is important for proper diagnosis and the development of an effective treatment plan to alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being.
The term "objective tinnitus" is derived from two components— "objective" and "tinnitus".
1. Objective: In this context, the term "objective" signifies something that is observable and measurable by an external source. It is the opposite of "subjective", which relates to something that is experienced or perceived only by the affected individual.
2. Tinnitus: Tinnitus refers to the perception of sound in one or both ears, or in the head, without any external source. It is often described as a ringing, buzzing, hissing, or buzzing sound. Tinnitus can be caused by various factors, such as exposure to loud noise, ear infections, certain medications, or underlying health conditions.
When combined, the term "objective tinnitus" is used to describe a specific type of tinnitus that can be detected by an external examiner.