Tinnitus
The perception of ringing, buzzing, or other sounds in the ears when no external sound is present.
Overview
Tinnitus is the perception of noise or ringing in the ears when no external sound is present. It's a common problem, affecting about 15-20% of people. Tinnitus isn't a condition itself - it's a symptom of an underlying condition, such as age-related hearing loss, ear injury, or a circulatory system disorder. While bothersome, tinnitus usually isn't a sign of something serious and often improves with treatment.
Common Age
Increases with age; common after 60
Prevalence
Affects 15-20% of people
Duration
Can be temporary or chronic; many people learn to cope or experience improvement
Common Symptoms
- Ringing in the ears
- Buzzing, roaring, clicking, hissing, or humming sounds
- Sound may be in one or both ears
- Sound may be constant or come and go
- Phantom sounds range from low roar to high squeal
- Sound may interfere with concentration or sleep
- Some people hear sounds in rhythm with their heartbeat (pulsatile tinnitus)
Possible Causes
- Age-related hearing loss
- Exposure to loud noise
- Earwax blockage
- Ear bone changes (otosclerosis)
- Ménière's disease
- TMJ disorders
- Head or neck injuries
- Certain medications
- Blood vessel disorders
- Muscle spasms in inner ear
Note: These are potential causes. A healthcare provider can help determine the specific cause in your case.
Quick Self-Care Tips
- 1Protect your hearing from loud noise
- 2Use white noise or background sounds to mask tinnitus
- 3Limit alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine
- 4Manage stress - it can worsen tinnitus
- 5Get enough sleep
- 6Try relaxation techniques
- 7Stay physically active
- 8Check if medications could be causing or worsening tinnitus
Disclaimer: These are general wellness suggestions, not medical treatment recommendations. They may help manage symptoms but should not replace professional medical care.
Detailed Treatment & Solutions
1SOUND THERAPY
Use white noise machines, especially at night. Apps offer various sounds (rain, ocean, etc.). Hearing aids can help if you have hearing loss. Tinnitus maskers are devices worn like hearing aids that produce a constant, low-level noise.
2HEARING AIDS
If you have hearing loss, hearing aids can make tinnitus less noticeable by amplifying external sounds. Some hearing aids have built-in tinnitus therapy sounds.
3COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (CBT)
Helps change negative thoughts about tinnitus. Teaches coping strategies. Reduces anxiety and depression related to tinnitus. One of the most effective treatments for improving quality of life with tinnitus.
4TINNITUS RETRAINING THERAPY (TRT)
Combines sound therapy with counseling. Aims to habituate you to the tinnitus sound so you no longer notice it. Takes 12-24 months but has good success rates.
5LIFESTYLE CHANGES
Protect ears from loud noise (wear earplugs). Manage cardiovascular health. Reduce caffeine and alcohol. Exercise regularly. Practice stress management. Get adequate sleep.
6MEDICAL TREATMENTS
Treat underlying causes (remove earwax, treat blood vessel problems). Some medications can help associated anxiety or depression. There's no FDA-approved drug specifically for tinnitus, but research is ongoing.
Important: Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any treatment regimen. The solutions above are for educational purposes and may not be suitable for everyone.
Risk Factors
- Loud noise exposure
- Age
- Smoking
- Cardiovascular problems
- Male sex
- Certain medications
Prevention
- Protecting hearing from loud noise
- Turning down volume on devices
- Using hearing protection at concerts/work
- Cardiovascular health
When to See a Doctor
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:
- Tinnitus develops after an upper respiratory infection and doesn't improve in a week
- Tinnitus is accompanied by hearing loss or dizziness
- Tinnitus is only in one ear
- Tinnitus is pulsatile (rhythmic with your heartbeat)
- Tinnitus is significantly affecting your quality of life
- You experience sudden hearing loss
Talk to a Healthcare Provider
If your symptoms are persistent, severe, or concerning, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper evaluation and personalized advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
QWill tinnitus go away?
It depends on the cause. Tinnitus from earwax or infection often resolves with treatment. Tinnitus from noise exposure or aging may be permanent but often becomes less bothersome over time as your brain learns to ignore it.
QIs tinnitus a sign of hearing loss?
Often, yes. Tinnitus commonly accompanies hearing loss, though you can have one without the other. If you have tinnitus, it's worth getting a hearing test.
Related Conditions
Ear Infection
An infection of the middle ear, common in children but can affect adults.
Vertigo
A sensation of spinning or whirling, feeling like you or your surroundings are moving.
Vertigo
A sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving when there is no actual movement.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions you have regarding a medical condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Information last reviewed: January 2026
This page provides educational information only. It is not medical advice.