Is Ringing in the ear a COVID symptom?
A ringing in the ear is something that millions of people live with every year. Also known as Tinnitus, this challenging experience means that the perception of sound exists even where there is no actual sound. Recent research has established a possible link between Tinnitus and COVID, as around 15% of people with COVID said they also had Tinnitus, often in the early stages of the virus. It’s this that has led to the idea that ringing in the ear could be a COVID symptom.
What is Tinnitus?
Although we often describe it as a ringing in the ears, Tinnitus can actually cover a whole range of different perceived sounds, including buzzing, hissing and whistling. In rare cases, it can even be the perception of music. It can interfere with the quality of life when it gets to the point of affecting sleep, concentration and mood. Tinnitus is almost always a symptom of an underlying health condition and is usually the result of a reaction in the brain to damage to the ear and auditory system.
Is Tinnitus a COVID symptom?
2021 research established that a large number of people who have had COVID also experienced Tinnitus. Many of these people had Tinnitus in the very early stages of their virus, which is why it is being considered as one of the symptoms. Most viruses, COVID included, cause an inflammatory response in the body and can damage many different systems, including the auditory system. It is even possible for a virus to cause hearing loss (for example, Rubella). Researchers now believe that COVID could trigger a response in the brain, auditory nerve, inner ear and auditory cortex that contribute to the signs of Tinnitus.
When is Tinnitus not a COVID symptom?
There is still a lot more research to be done on how COVID affects the body so there is no way to definitively determine the exact nature of the link between Tinnitus and COVID. However, it’s likely that anyone who has suffered with intermittent Tinnitus before having COVID - and the Tinnitus is not persistent - isn’t experiencing it as part of the package of COVID symptoms. COVID affects many different organ systems in the body and could be having a big impact on the brain and ears - but more research will be required to determine this definitively.
What can you do if you have Tinnitus?
If you’re concerned it might indicate you have COVID then look out for other symptoms and take a test as soon as you’re able. Tinnitus is a condition like diabetes where there is no cure but it can be managed. For example, if it’s stopping you getting to sleep you can use an app that plays sounds of rain etc to help distract you from the ringing sound. It’s also possible to learn to block the perception of the noise so that it doesn’t interfere with daily life.
Now that Tinnitus is potentially a COVID symptom, it’s important to understand what it feels like and what it may indicate.
Harley Street is the UK's foremost private medical centre which is dedicated to providing high-quality care for your ear, nose, throat, head & neck, and balance-related disorders. Find out more information on how Harley Street ENT can help you here.
