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Whom Should I Consult For Chronic Pulsatile Tinnitus Caused By Nerve Damage From TMJ?

Posted on Thu, 16 Dec 2021

Question: I have chronic pulsatile tinnitus caused by nerve damage from TMJ. It has gotten worse and almost unbearable. Who do I see for treatment? Are there treatments available? Is it possible that I further damaged the nerves by carrying very heavy loads of flower beddings, soil, doing yard work? I've had tinnitus for 12 years and wear a retainer each night. No problem until I started yard work.
Should I see an oral surgeon?

Answered by Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Please be advised to follow up with ENT specialist

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Recent worsening of the tinnitus may not be necessarily due to the pre-existing TMJ disorder. Tinnitus can occur due to several problems including inner ear issues, vestibulocochlear nerve damage, ear infections, ear wax, etc. As you mentioned neck injury can trigger tinnitus. However, the injury has to be pretty severe to cause nerve and muscle injury to cause tinnitus.
A detailed evaluation by an ENT specialist is required. Meanwhile, continue using the retainer.

Hope this answers your question
Please let me know if you need further clarification
Regards
Dr.Lekshmi

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy

Follow up: Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (13 hours later)

Thank you for your response. I do feel like the increased tinnitus is related to TMJ. The earache and jaw-clicking indicatedto me there was a problem with my TMJ. Maybe I need a new retainer or adjustment? However, I am taking citalopram HBR 10 mg. Could tinnitus be a side effect? It is not listed as a side effect. Thank you for any help you may give me. I do not know of any treatments for tinnitus. Are there?

Answered by Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (12 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Please see below for detailed answer

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

The worsening of tinnitus can be due to the TMJ issue. However, it is better to rule out any ear issues first. If there are no other causes found, trying a new retainer can help.
Treatment for tinnitus depend on the underlying cause. In case of long standing tinnitus anticonvulsant medication like Gabapentin have shown to help.
Don't worry about citalopram as it does not cause tinnitus.

Regards
Dr.Lekshmi

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. Remy Koshy