Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. While conventional medicine often treats tinnitus with medications or surgery, functional medicine takes a holistic approach to identify and address the underlying causes of the condition. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments of tinnitus and ringing in ears from a functional medicine perspective.

Symptoms of tinnitus and ringing in ears

The symptoms of tinnitus and ringing in ears can include:

• Ringing, buzzing, or humming in the ears.
  
• Sensitivity to sound.
  
• Difficulty hearing.
  
• Feeling of pressure or fullness in the ears.

Causes of tinnitus and ringing in ears

The causes of tinnitus and ringing in ears can vary from person to person, and can be influenced by a number of factors including genetics, lifestyle, diet, environmental toxins, stress, and hormonal imbalances. Some common triggers include:

• Noise-induced hearing loss: Exposure to loud noises can damage the hair cells in the inner ear, leading to tinnitus.
  
• Nutrient deficiencies: Deficiencies in nutrients such as vitamin B12 and zinc can affect hearing and lead to tinnitus.
  
• Medications: Certain medications, such as antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs, can cause tinnitus as a side effect.
  
• Stress: Chronic stress can affect hearing and lead to tinnitus.
  
• Cardiovascular conditions: Cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure and atherosclerosis can affect blood flow to the ears and lead to tinnitus.
  

Treatments for tinnitus and ringing in ears

Functional medicine approaches to treating tinnitus and ringing in ears involve identifying and addressing the underlying causes of the condition. Some common treatments include:

• Nutritional supplements: Supplements such as vitamin B12 and zinc can help address nutrient deficiencies and support hearing.
  
• Lifestyle modifications: Avoiding loud noises, regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress-reduction techniques such as meditation and yoga can help improve overall health and support hearing.
  
• Environmental modifications: Reducing exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants, and using natural cleaning products can help prevent hearing damage and support ear health.
  
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture can help improve circulation to the ears and support ear health.
  
• Sound therapy: Sound therapy, such as white noise or music therapy, can help mask the symptoms of tinnitus and provide relief.
  

Tests for tinnitus and ringing in ears

1. Blood sugar
2. Histamine intolerance
3. Gut tests
4. SIBO
5. Hormone tests: Adrenals, Thyroid, Estrogen & progesterone, Men’s hormones, Women’s hormones
6. Nutrition tests: Amino acids, Fatty acids, Minerals, Vitamins (A, B3, B5 & Biotin), Vitamins (B12, folate, D, E & Q10), Vitamins (All)
7. Heavy metals
8. Organic acids

In conclusion, tinnitus and ringing in ears can be caused by a variety of factors, and functional medicine approaches to treatment involve identifying and addressing the underlying causes to provide long-lasting relief from symptoms. By addressing the root causes of tinnitus and ringing in ears, individuals can maintain and improve their hearing and quality of life.