What Causes Noise In Left Ear?

Posted on Wed, 26 Nov 2014

Question: I have a question regarding a noise in my left ear. Is this something with which you can help?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (55 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Ear has to be examined...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

Noise in the ear could be due to various reasons which require a thorough evaluation.

The commonest causes are:
1. Ear eax
2. Eustachian tube block
3. Age related weakness of the hearing nerves
4. Inner ear related problems, etc.

A complete evaluation by an apt ENT specialist can help in identifying the cause. You may also require an audiological evaluation to confirm the diagnosis.

Hope I have answered your query; I'll be available for the follow up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (1 hour later)

I agree that a more detailed exam is in order. In fact, I did see my general practioner a couple of days ago (about another question but I did ask about the ear and he checked it out).

I'd like to add a little more detail and see if you have anything to add.

I punctured that eardrum in 1978 (yes, I'm 62 years old). It healed almost completely - a very minor hearing loss in the high frequences. The hearing in both ears was above normal and now is normal in the left and still better than average in the right.

When my now 31-year-old daughter was born, I experienced a lot noise in the left ear when she cried. I described it to my wife as crinkling paper. I carried soft ear plugs for loud occasions like singing in church.

When she was a teenager, the problem seemed to resolve itself and I went on with life. I'd always considered it unhealed scar tissue from the puncture that finally healed.

Six weeks ago I crashed while riding my bicycle and hit the pavement on the left side of my head. There are some stitches still healing.

Since then the noise in the ear has returned, although it's not quite the same sound. Though, it is similar.

So, what I'm seeking is potential causes so I know what to say when I'm talking to a local doctor.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (9 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Audiological investigation is required...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

I sincerely apologize for the delay in answering the query.

Considering your ear drum to be normal and noise being noticed post trauma, the most probable cause is concussion injury to the brain with devoid of blood to the sensitive inner ear. Hence, it would be wiser to start with audiological examination, followed by HRCT of the temporal bone (if required).

Also, you can try taking medicines such as betahistine and gingko biloba to improve the blood circulation to the sensitive inner ear nerves and to reduce the noise.

Hope this clarifies your doubts. Please revert back to me if you have any further queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju