What is Tinnitus? Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options

Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. Often described as "ringing in the ears," tinnitus can manifest as buzzing, hissing, whistling, clicking, or roaring sounds. It affects approximately 15-20% of people and is especially common in older adults.

Tinnitus is not a disease itself but a symptom of an underlying condition, such as age-related hearing loss, ear injury, or circulatory system problems.

**Subjective Tinnitus** The most common type, heard only by the person experiencing it. Usually caused by problems in the outer, middle, or inner ear, or issues with the auditory nerves.

**Objective Tinnitus** Rare type that can be heard by a doctor during examination. Usually caused by blood vessel problems, muscle contractions, or middle ear bone conditions.

**Pulsatile Tinnitus** A rhythmic sound that often beats in time with your heartbeat. Usually caused by blood vessel disorders.

- 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 (aspirin, antibiotics, diuretics) - High blood pressure - Stress and anxiety

While there's no cure for most types of tinnitus, several treatments can help:

**Hearing Aids with Tinnitus Masking** Many modern hearing aids include tinnitus masking features that play soothing sounds to mask the tinnitus.

**Sound Therapy** Using external sounds to alter your perception of or reaction to tinnitus.

**Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)** Helps change the way you think about and respond to tinnitus.

**Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT)** Combines sound therapy with counseling to help you become less aware of tinnitus.