Why is my ear hearing so loud?

The sensation of your ear hearing sounds too loudly, or hearing a loud sound internally, is often due to tinnitus.

Here's a breakdown of possible reasons:

• Tinnitus: Tinnitus is the perception of noise or ringing in the ears. This sound can range from a low roar to a high-pitched squeal, and the perceived loudness can vary significantly. It's considered subjective tinnitus when only you can hear the sound. In some cases, the tinnitus sound is indeed loud enough to interfere with concentration and hearing external sounds.

  • Causes of Tinnitus: Tinnitus itself isn't a condition, but a symptom of an underlying problem. Common causes include:
    • Hearing loss: Age-related hearing loss, or noise-induced hearing loss.
    • Ear infections: Can cause temporary or chronic tinnitus.
    • Meniere's disease: An inner ear disorder that can cause tinnitus, vertigo, and hearing loss.
    • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: Issues with the jaw joint can sometimes lead to tinnitus.
    • Head injuries: Can damage the inner ear or auditory pathways.
    • Medications: Certain medications, such as aspirin, can cause tinnitus as a side effect.
    • Stress and Anxiety: Can exacerbate existing tinnitus or even trigger it.

• Hyperacusis: While related to sound sensitivity, hyperacusis is distinct from tinnitus. It is a decreased tolerance to normal environmental sounds. Sounds that seem normal to other people may be perceived as uncomfortably loud or even painful to someone with hyperacusis.

• Middle Ear Myoclonus (MEM): This is a rare condition involving spasms of the muscles in the middle ear (stapedius or tensor tympani). These spasms can create a thumping or clicking sound inside the ear, which may be perceived as loud.

• Objective Tinnitus: In rare cases, tinnitus is objective, meaning a doctor can hear the sound as well. This is often due to blood vessel abnormalities or muscle spasms.

What to do if you experience loud sounds in your ear:

1. Consult a Doctor: See your primary care physician or an audiologist. They can perform a hearing test and help determine the cause of the loud sounds you're experiencing.
2. Describe the Sound: Be as specific as possible when describing the sound you hear (e.g., ringing, buzzing, roaring, clicking), its loudness, and when you notice it.
3. Review Medications: Make a list of all medications and supplements you take, as some may contribute to tinnitus.
4. Manage Stress: Implement stress-reduction techniques, such as exercise, meditation, or yoga.
5. Protect Your Hearing: Avoid exposure to loud noises. If you cannot avoid loud noises, wear earplugs or earmuffs.