Tinnitus: The condition that produces ringing sounds in your ears

Tinnitus: The condition that produces ringing sounds in your ears
© Getty/ SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Tinnitus: The condition that produces ringing sounds in your ears
More under this ad

It is often harmless but, in some cases, could be a symptom of hearing loss.

Ever heard noises in one or both ears, even when you are in a quiet environment? You may have experienced what is medically termed as tinnitus. It is more common than you imagine, affecting between 15% and 20% of the population, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Discover our latest podcast

Symptoms

Although it is commonly described as ‘ringing in the ears’, the sounds that people hear are not from external sources, they emanate from the inside of the ears. According to the NHS, other phantom (mysterious because they are internal) sounds that people hear include:

More under this ad
More under this ad
  • buzzing
  • whooshing
  • humming
  • hissing
  • throbbing
  • music or singing

One may hear these sounds continuously or intermittently, in one or both ears. The NHS explains:

You may hear these sounds in 1 or both ears, or in your head. They may come and go, or you might hear them all the time.

Read more:

Gangrene and hearing loss are being caused by Delta variant, doctors claim

Coronavirus: Should we add hearing loss to the list of symptoms?

Here's how to clean your cat's ears properly

Causes

It still remains unclear what brings on this condition that is especially common in older adults. Dr Richard S. Tyler, a professor at the department of communication sciences and disorders at the University of Iowa told Forbes News:

More under this ad
More under this ad
There are several different mechanisms involved, but no one knows for sure what they are. It seems to be hyperactivity in the auditory nerves.
thumbnail
Tinnitus could be an early sign of hearing loss. Getty/ ljubaphoto
More under this ad
More under this ad

However, for most people with this condition, it may be a sign of hearing loss, or a symptom of more serious conditions such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis.

Tinnitus could also be a side effect of certain medications like antibiotics, aspirin or chemotherapy drugs.

An ear infection or a blockage in the ear canal may cause ringing in the ears, as well as head/neck injuries which can affect the inner ear. The NHS advises people with this condition to avoid total silence as

More under this ad
More under this ad
listening to soft music or sounds (called sound therapy) may distract you from the tinnitus.

If you can, try not to focus too much on it as that could make it worse. Engage in activities that will take your mind off it.

More under this ad
More under this ad