The noise that never goes away

By Jane E. Brody
Updated December 19 2012 - 10:08am, first published 9:22am

Shortly after my 70th birthday, a high-pitched hum began in my left ear. I noticed it only during quiet times but soon realised that it never went away.An ear, nose and throat specialist (otolaryngologist) examined my ears and took a thorough medical history that included questions about noise exposure and the drugs I take. An audiologist checked my hearing. Diagnosis: tinnitus, with mild hearing loss in the upper range that closely matched the pitch of the hum.

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