Both deafness and tinnitus are auditory disturbances. Tinnitus is characterized by a ringing sound in the ears felt by the patient and deafness is failing or loss of hearing. Because of the similarities between these two conditions in etiology and treatment, they are discussed together.
Deafness and tinnitus can be divided into two types; deficiency and excess. The excess type is caused by fury or fright with upward rush of wind fire of the liver and gallbladder that obstructs the qi circulation in the Shaoyang Meridians or caused by invasion of pathogenic wind blocking the orifice. The deficiency type is due to deficiency of the kidney qi and failure of essential qi to ascend to the ear.
Excess type: Main manifestation – Sudden deafness, distension sensation and constant ringing in the ear that cannot be eliminated by pressing. In the case of upward perversion of pathogenic wind fire of the liver and gallbladder, there are flushed face, dry mouth, irritability and hot temper.
Deficiency type: Main manifestation – Protracted deafness, intermittent tinnitus aggravated by strain and eliminated by pressing, dizziness, soreness and aching of the lower back, seminal emission, excessive leukorrhea.
Deafness and tinnitus can be treated with acupuncture and herbs. For more detailed questions, please contact Dr. Jeon of Jun’s Acupuncture Clinic at 661-799-7369.