Can tinnitus occur without significant hearing loss?

[DeeJL]

Hi everyone. I have been experiencing a worsening tinnitus in the last month and am quite discouraged with it. I assumed the reason for my tinnitus was damage from loud music (concerts and headphones). However, I went to the audiologist to have a hearing exam performed and it was found that while I may have some minor losses in the higher frequencies, my hearing is actually quite good. It was my understanding that tinnitus is almost always associated with hearing loss. So I am wondering what it might mean for my tinnitus that I don't have much in the way of lost hearing and am also wondering if tinnitus often occurs without the presence of significant hearing loss.

An additional concern I have is that I have put myself at risk because of recreational use of Vicodin, which has gone on for about 2 yrs. While I have never taken more than a small dosage on a given day (never more than 500mg in a day and most often about 250mg), my usage has been fairly consistent usually about twice a week. Would a tinnitus resulting from Vicodin use be more likely to result in strictly tinnitus, without the hearing loss?

Thanks everyone. I really appreciate any input.

[DeeJL]

ty kal

[kalbre98]

Increased tinnitus could be caused by a middle ear issue from an infection or from the middle ear bones or drum being eroded as well s the issues that you have raised. Best thing to do in my opinion ( I have had alot of hearing and middle ear issues going on 16 years now which include tinnitus) get a referral to see an ent specialist (ear nose and thoart specialist) and they will take into account your hearing test as well as doing a range of additional auditory vibrational tests and may even get you to hav a cat scan to. If they don't ask your local gp to get a catscan done just in case. Good luck with it all.