Tinnitus is a common problem that can affect one or both ears. Ringing sounds like buzzing, hissing, or high-pitched whine. Most common causes are hearing loss and loud noises. Men are more likely to develop tinnitus than women
Audiogram shows audible thresholds for standardized frequencies. Y-axis represents decibels (dB), X-axis represents hertz (Hz). Normal hearing ranges from -10 to 15 dB(HL). Frequencies displayed in octaves (e.g., 250, 500, 1000 Hz)
CHL occurs when sound waves cannot transfer through outer, middle or inner ear. Mixed hearing loss occurs when CHL coexists with sensorineural loss. Hearing loss makes sounds faint or muffled, worse in lower frequencies
Rare genetic disorder causing premature skull bone fusion. Named after German geneticist Rudolf Arthur Pfeiffer (1931-2012). Caused by mutations in FGFR1 or FGFR2 genes. Affects about 1 in 100,000 people
Cochlear implant provides sound perception for moderate-to-profound hearing loss. Implant bypasses acoustic hearing through electrical stimulation of auditory nerve. Device consists of external processor and internal implant with electrodes
Tinnitus is the perception of ringing or other noises in one or both ears. Affects about 15-20% of people, especially older adults. Most common type is subjective tinnitus, only heard by the affected person