Considerations

• Tinnitus is ringing of the ears. Keep in mind that while this condition is associated with menopause, tinnitus is also associated with heart disease, hypothyroidism and from side effects from certain medications, according to Menopause A to Z. Studies are still being performed linking tinnitus with menopause. However, there does appear to be a connection between hormonal changes and tinnitus.
  
  

Theories/Speculation

• There appears to be a relationship between hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which many women choose to use during menopause and perimenopause for relief from menopausal symptoms, and tinnitus, according to Menopause A to Z. Additionally, menstrual bleeding during perimenopause, when combined with HRT, further exacerbates tinnitus.
  
  

Case Study

• A menopausal woman began to experience tinnitus just days after beginning HRT. She replaced the HRT with steroids, and the ringing in her ears stopped. She was next given an artificial form of HRT, and this did not cause the ringing to reoccur.
  
  

Another Theory

• According to Menopause A to Z, some people believe that tinnitus is just a part of aging; therefore, not related to menopause at all. Because menopause occurs at around 50 years of age, that alone could be the reason for tinnitus.
  
  

Expert Insight

• There needs to be more research conducted to determine if tinnitus is associated with menopause or if it is just another effect of aging. People strongly believe, however, that HRT either causes or at the very least, exacerbates tinnitus. Many treatments are available for menopausal symptoms and tinnitus that you can discuss with your doctor.