What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the perception of sound when there is no external source of that sound. It is commonly referred to as “ringing in the ears,” but the sound can also be described as buzzing, hissing, whistling, or other noises. Tinnitus can be experienced in one or both ears and may be constant or intermittent.
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There is no tinnitus cure, but you can get relief.
Management strategies can help reduce its impact. These may include addressing the underlying cause, using hearing aids, sound therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and relaxation techniques. It’s essential for individuals experiencing tinnitus to seek medical advice to determine the cause and explore appropriate management options.
Frequently asked questions
Tinnitus (“TIN-a-tus” or “Tin-EYE-tus”) is the medical term for the sensation of hearing sound in your ears or head when no external sound is present. In most cases, tinnitus is a subjective noise, meaning only the person experiencing it can hear it. Typically, people describe the sound as “ringing in the ears,” though others describe it as hissing, buzzing, whistling, roaring and even chirping. Tinnitus can be sporadic or constant, with volume ranging from subtle to debilitating.
The exact causes of tinnitus are not fully understood, but have been linked to the following: noise exposure (e.g., from shooting or exposure to loud occupational and recreational noises), aging, head injuries, side effects from medication. 2
A global meta-analysis has shown that tinnitus is estimated to affect over 740 million of adults worldwide and is perceived as a major problem by more than 120 million adults.
Currently, there is no known cure for tinnitus: nothing has been shown to actually make the sound stop. However, there are ways to manage tinnitus and provide relief. The ATA recommends that anyone with tinnitus should see a hearing professional about tinnitus.
Yes, while tinnitus can be attributed to numerous health conditions, people with tinnitus often also have hearing loss.
Amplification with hearing aids can bring relief to people experiencing tinnitus, as they may boost ambient sounds that can help take the focus off of tinnitus.
The first step in managing tinnitus is to schedule an appointment with a hearing professional in your area. You can also take our fast, free tinnitus test to learn more about your tinnitus and possible relief options you can discuss at your appointment.