What is tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a common problem. It affects about 15% to 20% of people and is especially common in older adults.

Tinnitus is not a disease. It is a symptom that something is wrong in the auditory system, which includes the ear, the auditory nerve that connects the inner ear to the brain, and the parts of the brain that process sound. Something as simple as a piece of earwax blocking the ear canal can cause tinnitus. But it can also be the result of several health conditions, such as:

• Noise-induced hearing loss
• Ear and sinus infections
• Diseases of the heart or blood vessels
• Ménière’s disease
• Brain tumors
• Hormonal changes in women
• Thyroid abnormalities
• Start or stop taking specific medications

Some people develop tinnitus for no obvious reason. Most of the time, tinnitus isn’t a sign of a serious health problem. However, if it’s loud or doesn’t go away, it can cause fatigue, depression, anxiety, and problems with memory and concentration. For some, tinnitus can be a source of real mental and emotional anguish.