- Most commonly described as "ringing in the ears," tinnitus is characterized in many ways by various sufferers. Defined as the subjective experience of some sound in the absence of the external presence of that sound, tinnitus can be stem from certain diseases or events that cause hearing loss, such as ear infection, certain neuropathies, and prolonged exposure to loud noises, among others.
- Drugs with the potential to cause hearing loss are known as "ototoxic." Many drugs, particularly broad systemic treatments such as chemotherapy, have ototoxic potential and have been known to cause tinnitus. Particularly when dealing with topical ear treatments, be sure to investigate their chances for causing hearing loss and tinnitus before applying. Also ask your doctor about the risk factors, including ototoxicity, and research known side effects before taking any medication. The antibiotic Neomycin, for example, has a high chance for ototoxic reaction when applied as an ear infection treatment.
- According to Dr. Timothy C. Hain, MD, certain drugs have the tendency to cause tinnitus, as listed on http://www.dizziness-and-balance.com/disorders/bilat/ototoxins.html. If you are currently taking one of these drugs, be aware that medications with ototoxic potential can also lead to increased damage from loud noises. If you are worried about the potential for tinnitus from a drug, avoid loud noises or wear ear plugs as a precaution.
Tinnitus
Ototoxic Drugs
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