I can hear a buzzing in my ear. It started two weeks ago and I can hear it even when I'm sleeping. It's making me crazy. What could the cause be?

Answer 1

== == Tinnitus is the medical term for hearing something that "isn't really there" in one or both ears. It is common, and its duration varies from a minute or two to several days or weeks. A day or so isn't generally a cause for worry, but a couple of weeks should stimulate action - a trip to the doctor. What causes tinnitus isn't fully understood. The possible causes for tinnitus read like a grocery list 'cause there are so many of them. Alcohol, caffeine, antibiotics, aspirin, or other drugs can make a contribution. Fluid in the ear, earwax, exposure to a sudden loud sound or a head injury might start a buzz in the ear. Some diseases or conditions may be the cause. These include high blood pressure, an allergy and anemia. A cold or the flu may also be behind it, or an ear infection or sinus infection. There are some rare causes that are serious in nature, and a physician's appointment should be scheduled. Or a trip to the clinic for a check up. Two weeks it a bit of a stretch for a buzzing in the ear or ears. Better get this one looked at. Use the links for further reading. Do not substitute anything for the advice of a physician. Though it is unlikely, it is possible that the buzzing (or any sound diagnosed as tinnitus) could be a precursor to some form of hearing loss.