Dr. David J. Mathew
Ophthalmology (Eye Care)
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
Answered by
Medically reviewed by
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I have vision-related tinnitus. I have been nearsighted for a while. Approximately, three months ago, I went to see a speaker, sat in the back and ended up looking at him out-of-focus for an hour. The next day, my ears started ringing. Looking at my computer tends to make it louder. I have special blue light blocking computer glasses. I got polarized yellow clip to use at night, in addition to three screens over my computer as well as a couple programs to warm the screen's color temperature. But, I am still experiencing elevated ringing. My audiology test revealed a slight hearing loss in left ear, but nothing that would have brought on sudden tinnitus. I am currently on Nortriptyline to aid sleep. I have an appointment to see an ophthalmologist. I am searching for any immediate help possible. Do you like to give any suggestions for a particular polarized shade for to clip on or use over my prescription specs?
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
From what you have described, you have tinnitus that gets exacerbated on looking at the computer screen.There is no established connection between looking at a bright object and worsening of tinnitus, though there may be isolated reports. Tinnitus is usually caused due to an inner ear problem. In my opinion, you should seek an ENT consultation instead of an eye checkup as your main problem is tinnitus. There have been reports of tinnitus developing in patients using antidepressants (Nortriptyline). That may very well be the cause in your case. Other usual precipitants of tinnitus are loud noise, ease infection and trauma. Did you have any of these? Do you also have vertigo (Meniere's disease)? An ENT consultation will help you find out the real cause for your tinnitus.
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
Thank you for the additional information. The tone is lowest in the morning. I am getting it severely when I did not sleep well. I am going to try different colored tints to see if that helps.
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
If the ringing is aggravated by a particular color, then you can try different tints to see which one works best for you. Tints work by blocking specific colors from passing through. Since the tone is lowest in the morning, it may get relieved on taking rest. You can take breaks in between your computer work. Close your eyes for 10 to 15 seconds every 15 minutes. Also, blink frequently and voluntarily. If possible, plan a power nap in the afternoon too.
Was this conversation helpful?
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Ophthalmology (Eye Care)
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy
