MyLeukemiaTeam

Is there a connection between tinnitus and CLL? Yes, there is. Research shows that between 15% and 40% of people living with leukemia experience ear-related symptoms, including tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing loss, vertigo, and balance issues. There are a few reasons why tinnitus can occur with CLL:

- Bleeding or Show Full Answer

Is there a connection between tinnitus and CLL? Yes, there is. Research shows that between 15% and 40% of people living with leukemia experience ear-related symptoms, including tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing loss, vertigo, and balance issues. There are a few reasons why tinnitus can occur with CLL:

- Bleeding or hemorrhage in the ear area
- Infections — CLL weakens the immune system, making infections more likely
- Tumoral infiltration — leukemia cells affecting ear structures
- Chemotherapy or radiation treatments — some drugs used to treat CLL are known to damage hearing (called ototoxic medications) When it comes to managing tinnitus and hearing changes, there are a few options worth discussing with your care team:

- Regular hearing tests (audiograms) — especially important before and during chemotherapy
- Leukapheresis — a procedure that filters excess white blood cells from the blood, which may help reverse some hearing damage if done early
- Hearing aids — small devices that amplify sound and help manage day-to-day hearing difficulties
- MRI or CT scans — to check the inner ear structures if needed

It's really important to flag any changes in your hearing to your oncology team as early as possible. Early action can make a meaningful difference.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Hearing Loss and Leukemia: Is There a Connection?