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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 110 (from laksa109)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa110.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156286\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156286\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/156286","crawl_time":1775030169,"first_indexed_time":1548410830,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,medicalnewstoday!www,\/articles\/156286 s443","src_root_hash":"5853625527623639710","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Tinnitus (ringing in the ears): Causes and treatments","meta_descriptions":["Tinnitus is ringing, whistling, or another sound in a person's ears that only they can hear. It can be temporary or long term, but there are ways to manage it."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"A person may also hear hissing, roaring, or whistling sounds, which may be high or low pitched. The sound may be constant or only occur sometimes.\nIn this article, find out what tinnitus feels like, why it happens, when to contact a doctor, and how to manage it.\nTinnitus refers to atypical sounds in the ear. People commonly describe the sound as:\nringing\nhissing\nbuzzing\nroaring\nwhistling\nIn most cases, tinnitus is subjective. This means only the individual with tinnitus can hear the sound, and there is no way to measure it. In fewer than\n1%\nof cases, other people can hear the noise.\nThe sound may:\naffect one or both ears\nbe intermittent or continuous\nbe high or low pitched\nThe sound can change in volume and is often most noticeable at night or during quiet periods.\nSome people with tinnitus\nalso have\nhypersensitivity to noise, which is known as\nhyperacusis\n. For example, they may find it uncomfortable to hear a door closing or a book dropping.\nSome people with tinnitus may hear a pulsing sound, like a heartbeat. This is a\nrarer\nform of the condition called\npulsatile tinnitus\n. Sometimes, this type of tinnitus indicates a problem with\nblood vessels\nnear the ear.\nMany factors can potentially lead to tinnitus. Among the most common is hearing loss.\nExposure to loud sounds or music can damage the ears, resulting in a ringing sound. Over time, this ringing sound may become permanent and occur with hearing loss.\nSome types of noise that can cause tinnitus include:\nworkplace noise, for example, in buildings or factories\nthe sound of gunshots and explosions, including on movie sets\nloud music, such as working near powerful speakers\nPeople can also experience hearing loss as they age. Tinnitus is\ncommon\nin older adults for this reason.\nOther potential causes include:\nobstructions in the ear, such as earwax\ninjuries to the brain, head, or neck\nnasal or\nsinus\ncongestion\ntemporomandibular joint disorders\n, which affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles and ligaments\nacute\nbarotrauma\n, which occurs when pressure changes rapidly in the ears\nAcute barotrauma can occur in people who dive, snorkel, or fly planes. It can also occur in people who are near blasts or explosions.\nVarious chronic conditions can also lead to tinnitus or make it worse, including:\nhigh blood pressure\ncardiovascular disease\nfibromyalgia\nLyme disease\nthyroid conditions\nanxiety or depression\ndiabetes\nMénière’s disease\nmultiple sclerosis\npalatal\nmyoclonus\n, a rare condition\nthat involves\nrhythmic contractions of muscles in the roof of the mouth\nin rare cases,\ntumors\nin the ear or brain\nAdditionally, a number of medications\ncan cause\ntinnitus if a person starts using them or stops taking them. They include:\naspirin\nnonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs\nantibiotics\nchemotherapy\nWhile tinnitus is not harmful, it can be distressing and affect a person’s well-being. Potential complications of tinnitus include:\nstress and\nanxiety\ndepression\nsleep problems\ndifficulty concentrating\nIf tinnitus is a sign of an underlying condition, it may also mean a person needs medical treatment.\nA person should seek medical advice if:\nthey have new or sudden tinnitus or tinnitus with other symptoms\nthe sound pulses or whooshes like a heartbeat\nthere may be earwax or a foreign object in the ear\ntinnitus affects the person’s sleep, ability to interact with others, and other aspects of daily life\ntinnitus is causing anxiety or depression\nPeople should seek emergency medical help for tinnitus if it\noccurs\nafter\na head injury\nor if the person also has:\ntinnitus that another person\ncan hear\n, as this may be a sign of a serious condition\nvertigo\n(dizziness)\nweakness in the facial muscles\nsudden hearing loss\nIf a person seeks medical advice for tinnitus, the doctor may:\nask about symptoms\ndo a test to check for hearing loss\nassess for conditions that may be causing tinnitus\nrefer the person to a specialist doctor for more investigations\nThe doctor may ask the following questions:\nWhen and how did tinnitus first start?\nAre the noises constant, intermittent, or pulsating?\nIs there any hearing loss or dizziness?\nIs there any pain or jaw clicking?\nHave you had a recent illness or injury?\nHas there been any exposure to loud noise?\nDepending on the cause of tinnitus, treatment\nmay involve\n:\nprompt care for an ear infection\nremoval of earwax\ndiscontinuation\nor adjustment of medications that may be causing it\ntreatment of an underlying condition\ntreatment for hearing loss, if present\nsteps to manage or mask the sounds of tinnitus\ncounseling to help with related issues, such as anxiety or depression\nIf tinnitus does not go away, the following strategies may help:\nMasking\nSound therapy, or masking, involves using external noise to mask the perception of tinnitus. This could involve:\nplaying low level background music\nplaying white noise\nwearing\nsound generators\nthat fit in the ear and generate background noise or music\nusing a tabletop sound generator that plays relaxing sounds, such as waves or rain\nusing\nhearing aids\nto amplify environmental sounds\nThese strategies aim to redirect the attention\naway from\ntinnitus.\nCochlear implants and hearing aids\nAddressing underlying hearing loss\nmay help\nreduce the symptoms of tinnitus. A range of interventions can address hearing loss, from amplification devices to surgical implants.\nHearing aids often have programs to help mask tinnitus.\nBehavioral therapy\nIn addition to other therapies, people may try cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help them live with tinnitus. CBT can also address anxiety or depression.\nLifestyle tips\npracticing\nrelaxation techniques\n, such as\nmeditation\nor\ndeep breathing\ntrying to avoid stress\ndeveloping a\nsleep routine\n, for example, taking a bath and avoiding\ncaffeine\nbefore bed\njoining a support group for people with tinnitus\navoiding total silence, which can make symptoms worse\nseeking distraction, such as from a hobby, to direct attention away from tinnitus\nIt may not always be possible to prevent tinnitus, but people can take measures to reduce the risk by:\nplaying music or other sounds at a\nmoderate volume\nusing special earplugs that do not distort sound when attending a concert\nusing hearing protection, such as ear mufflers and earplugs, in noisy environments\ndiscussing the adverse effects of any medications with a doctor before using them\nHere are some questions people often ask about tinnitus.\nCan tinnitus go away?\nTinnitus can go away if it results from a treatable cause, such as earwax, drug use, or an underlying condition. If it results from permanent damage to the ear or another structure, though, it will not disappear.\nHow can you get rid of tinnitus?\nThis depends on the cause. Not all causes of tinnitus go away, but some do. Treating any underlying problems may help.\nWhat are the first signs of tinnitus?\nPeople with tinnitus may hear a ringing, buzzing, roaring, or whistling sound.\nTinnitus is a sound a person hears that nobody else can hear. People describe it as ringing, hissing, buzzing, or roaring. It is common and often affects older adults, though it can happen at any age.\nIn most cases, tinnitus will not go away completely. However, it may resolve after treatment if it is due to earwax or medication. People can manage tinnitus through strategies such as masking, which means playing other sounds to distract their attention from tinnitus.","attrs_markdown":"- Health Conditions\n  Health Conditions\n  \n  - [Alzheimer's & Dementia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/alzheimers-and-dementia)\n  - [Anxiety](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/anxiety)\n  - [Asthma & Allergies](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/asthma-and-allergies)\n  - [Atopic Dermatitis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/program\/investigating-atopic-dermatitis)\n  - [Breast Cancer](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/breast-cancer)\n  - [Cancer](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/cancer)\n  - [Cardiovascular Health](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/cardiovascular-health)\n  - [COVID-19](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/coronavirus?correlationId=2b137d5a-dcfb-464e-9ea6-72c5a54b4e92)\n  - [Diabetes](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/diabetes)\n  - [Endometriosis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/endometriosis)\n  - 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[Causes Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/ear-feels-clogged-and-ringing)\n  - [Anxiety](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/pulsatile-tinnitus-anxiety)\n  - [Head Injury](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/tinnitus-after-head-injury)\n  - [Tight Neck Muscles](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/can-tight-neck-muscles-cause-pulsatile-tinnitus)\n  - [What Causes Flares?](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/why-does-tinnitus-come-and-go)\n- ### Home Remedies\n  Home Remedies\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Home Remedies Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/natural-remedies-for-tinnitus)\n  - [Magnesium](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/magnesium-for-tinnitus)\n  - [B12](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/b12-for-tinnitus)\n  - [Fasting](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/fasting-for-tinnitus)\n- ### Prognosis\n  Prognosis\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Prognosis Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/how-long-does-tinnitus-last)\n  - [Signs of Improvement](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/signs-that-tinnitus-is-going-away)\n  - [Is it Dangerous?](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/is-tinnitus-dangerous)\n- ### Symptoms\n  Symptoms\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Symptoms Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/what-does-tinnitus-sound-like)\n  - [Dizziness](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/tinnitus-and-dizziness)\n  - [Ear Wax](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/pulsatile-tinnitus-ear-wax)\n- ### Types\n  Types\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Types Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/types-of-tinnitus)\n  - [Unilateral](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/tinnitus-in-one-ear)\n  - [Pulsatile In One Ear](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/pulsatile-tinnitus-in-one-ear-only)\n  - [Pulsatile](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/319494)\n  - [TMJ](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/what-does-tmj-tinnitus-sound-like)\n- ### Complications\n  Complications\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Affected Sleep](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/how-to-sleep-with-tinnitus)\n  - [Memory Loss](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/does-tinnitus-cause-memory-loss)\n- ### Management\n  Management\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Potential Food Triggers](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/foods-that-trigger-tinnitus)\n  - [Changes With Head Position](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/pulsatile-tinnitus-changes-with-head-position)\n  - [Retraining Therapy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/tinnitus-retraining-therapy)\n  - [CBD](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/cbd-for-tinnitus)\n  - [Tips for Flying](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/flying-with-tinnitus)\n  - [Massage](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/massage-for-tinnitus)\n- ### Related Conditions\n  Related Conditions\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Migrane](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/tinnitus-and-migraine)\n  - [Lupus](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/lupus-and-tinnitus)\n  - [Hypertension](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/tinnitus-and-hypertension)\n- ### Treatment\n  Treatment\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Medications](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/best-drugs-for-tinnitus)\n  - [Surgery](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/tinnitus-surgery)\n\n# What to know about tinnitus (ringing in the ears)\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.medicalnewstoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/Skye-Quamina-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105)\n\n[Medically reviewed]() by [Skye D. Quamina, Au.D., CCC-A]() — Written by [Kathleen Davis, FNP]() —  [Updated on July 4, 2025]()\n\n- [Symptoms](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/156286#symptoms)\n- [Causes](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/156286#causes)\n- [Complications](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/156286#complications)\n- [Contact a doctor](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/156286#contact-a-doctor)\n- [Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/156286#diagnosis)\n- [Treatment](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/156286#treatment)\n- [Living with tinnitus](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/156286#living-with-tinnitus)\n- [Prevention](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/156286#prevention)\n- [FAQ](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/156286#faq)\n- [Summary](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/156286#summary)\n\n### Key takeaways\n- Tinnitus is characterized by the perception of sound, such as ringing, hissing, or buzzing, in one or both ears. It can be caused by a variety of factors including noise exposure, underlying health conditions, and certain medications.\n- While tinnitus itself is not dangerous, it can lead to complications like stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances, and may indicate an underlying medical condition that requires treatment.\n- Management strategies for persistent tinnitus include sound therapy to mask the disturbing sounds, addressing underlying hearing loss with aids or implants, and lifestyle adjustments like relaxation techniques and avoiding silence.\n\nA person may also hear hissing, roaring, or whistling sounds, which may be high or low pitched. The sound may be constant or only occur sometimes.\n\nIn this article, find out what tinnitus feels like, why it happens, when to contact a doctor, and how to manage it.\n\n## [Symptoms of tinnitus]()\n![a man wearing yellow glasses has ringing in his ears](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/01\/male-ear-ringing-1296x728-header-1024x576.jpg)\n\n[Share on Pinterest](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalnewstoday.com%2Farticles%2F156286&media=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.post.rvohealth.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F3%2F2025%2F01%2Fmale-ear-ringing-1296x728-header-1024x576.jpg&description=Tinnitus%20\\(ringing%20in%20the%20ears\\)%3A%20Causes%20and%20treatments%20 \"Share on Pinterest\")\n\nElisaveta Ivanova\/Getty Images\n\nTinnitus refers to atypical sounds in the ear. People commonly describe the sound as:\n\n- ringing\n- hissing\n- buzzing\n- roaring\n- whistling\n\nIn most cases, tinnitus is subjective. This means only the individual with tinnitus can hear the sound, and there is no way to measure it. In fewer than [1%](https:\/\/www.ata.org\/understanding-facts) of cases, other people can hear the noise.\n\nThe sound may:\n\n- affect one or both ears\n- be intermittent or continuous\n- be high or low pitched\n\nThe sound can change in volume and is often most noticeable at night or during quiet periods.\n\nSome people with tinnitus [also have](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK557713\/) hypersensitivity to noise, which is known as [hyperacusis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/hyperacusis\/). For example, they may find it uncomfortable to hear a door closing or a book dropping.\n\nSome people with tinnitus may hear a pulsing sound, like a heartbeat. This is a [rarer](https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/tinnitus) form of the condition called [pulsatile tinnitus](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/319494). Sometimes, this type of tinnitus indicates a problem with [blood vessels](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/artery-vs-vein\/) near the ear.\n\n[What causes fluttering in the ears?](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/fluttering-in-ear)\n\n## [Causes and risk factors]()\nMany factors can potentially lead to tinnitus. Among the most common is hearing loss.\n\nExposure to loud sounds or music can damage the ears, resulting in a ringing sound. Over time, this ringing sound may become permanent and occur with hearing loss.\n\nSome types of noise that can cause tinnitus include:\n\n- workplace noise, for example, in buildings or factories\n- the sound of gunshots and explosions, including on movie sets\n- loud music, such as working near powerful speakers\n\nPeople can also experience hearing loss as they age. Tinnitus is [common](https:\/\/www.ata.org\/about-tinnitus\/why-are-my-ears-ringing\/causes\/) in older adults for this reason.\n\nOther potential causes include:\n\n- obstructions in the ear, such as earwax\n- injuries to the brain, head, or neck\n- nasal or [sinus](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/149941\/) congestion\n- [temporomandibular joint disorders](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/tmj-treatment), which affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles and ligaments\n- acute [barotrauma](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/322215\/), which occurs when pressure changes rapidly in the ears\n\nAcute barotrauma can occur in people who dive, snorkel, or fly planes. It can also occur in people who are near blasts or explosions.\n\nVarious chronic conditions can also lead to tinnitus or make it worse, including:\n\n- high blood pressure\n- cardiovascular disease\n- fibromyalgia\n- Lyme disease\n- thyroid conditions\n- anxiety or depression\n- diabetes\n- Ménière’s disease\n- multiple sclerosis\n- palatal [myoclonus](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/myoclonus\/), a rare condition\n  [that involves](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/32406274\/)\n  rhythmic contractions of muscles in the roof of the mouth\n- in rare cases, [tumors](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/249141\/) in the ear or brain\n\nAdditionally, a number of medications [can cause](https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/tinnitus) tinnitus if a person starts using them or stops taking them. They include:\n\n- aspirin\n- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs\n- antibiotics\n- chemotherapy\n\n[What can I do if my ears are ringing after a concert?](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/321093)\n\n## [Complications of tinnitus]()\nWhile tinnitus is not harmful, it can be distressing and affect a person’s well-being. Potential complications of tinnitus include:\n\n- stress and [anxiety](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/323454)\n- [depression](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/8933)\n- [sleep problems](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/9155)\n- difficulty concentrating\n\nIf tinnitus is a sign of an underlying condition, it may also mean a person needs medical treatment.\n\n## [When to see a doctor]()\nA person should seek medical advice if:\n\n- they have new or sudden tinnitus or tinnitus with other symptoms\n- the sound pulses or whooshes like a heartbeat\n- there may be earwax or a foreign object in the ear\n- tinnitus affects the person’s sleep, ability to interact with others, and other aspects of daily life\n- tinnitus is causing anxiety or depression\n\nPeople should seek emergency medical help for tinnitus if it [occurs](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/tinnitus\/) after [a head injury](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/179837\/) or if the person also has:\n\n- tinnitus that another person\n  [can hear](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK430809\/)\n  , as this may be a sign of a serious condition\n- [vertigo](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/160900) (dizziness)\n- weakness in the facial muscles\n- sudden hearing loss\n\n## [Diagnosis]()\nIf a person seeks medical advice for tinnitus, the doctor may:\n\n- ask about symptoms\n- do a test to check for hearing loss\n- assess for conditions that may be causing tinnitus\n- refer the person to a specialist doctor for more investigations\n\nThe doctor may ask the following questions:\n\n- When and how did tinnitus first start?\n- Are the noises constant, intermittent, or pulsating?\n- Is there any hearing loss or dizziness?\n- Is there any pain or jaw clicking?\n- Have you had a recent illness or injury?\n- Has there been any exposure to loud noise?\n\n## [Treatment for tinnitus]()\nDepending on the cause of tinnitus, treatment [may involve](https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/tinnitus):\n\n- prompt care for an ear infection\n- removal of earwax\n- [discontinuation](https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/tinnitus)\n  or adjustment of medications that may be causing it\n- treatment of an underlying condition\n- treatment for hearing loss, if present\n- steps to manage or mask the sounds of tinnitus\n- counseling to help with related issues, such as anxiety or depression\n\n## [If tinnitus does not go away]()\nIf tinnitus does not go away, the following strategies may help:\n\n### Masking\nSound therapy, or masking, involves using external noise to mask the perception of tinnitus. This could involve:\n\n- playing low level background music\n- playing white noise\n- wearing [sound generators](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/best-white-noise-machine\/) that fit in the ear and generate background noise or music\n- using a tabletop sound generator that plays relaxing sounds, such as waves or rain\n- using [hearing aids](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/types-of-hearing-aids) to amplify environmental sounds\n\nThese strategies aim to redirect the attention [away from](https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/tinnitus) tinnitus.\n\nAn [audiologist](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/hearing-doctor\/) may offer [tinnitus retraining therapy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/tinnitus-retraining-therapy\/), a specialized therapy that [may help](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6547112\/) people live more comfortably with tinnitus.\n\n[What are the best hearing aids for tinnitus?](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/4-of-the-best-hearing-aids-for-tinnitus)\n\n### Cochlear implants and hearing aids\nAddressing underlying hearing loss [may help](https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/tinnitus) reduce the symptoms of tinnitus. A range of interventions can address hearing loss, from amplification devices to surgical implants.\n\nHearing aids often have programs to help mask tinnitus.\n\n### Behavioral therapy\nIn addition to other therapies, people may try cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help them live with tinnitus. CBT can also address anxiety or depression.\n\n### Lifestyle tips\nLifestyle changes that people [may find helpful](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/tinnitus\/) include:\n\n- practicing [relaxation techniques](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/5-relaxation-techniques-to-try\/), such as [meditation](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/324839) or [deep breathing](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/breathing-techniques)\n- trying to avoid stress\n- developing a [sleep routine](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sleep-hygiene), for example, taking a bath and avoiding [caffeine](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/271707\/) before bed\n- joining a support group for people with tinnitus\n- avoiding total silence, which can make symptoms worse\n- seeking distraction, such as from a hobby, to direct attention away from tinnitus\n\n[Can acupressure help with tinnitus?](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/ear-pressure-points)\n\n## [Preventing tinnitus]()\nIt may not always be possible to prevent tinnitus, but people can take measures to reduce the risk by:\n\n- playing music or other sounds at a [moderate volume](https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC8073416\/)\n- using special earplugs that do not distort sound when attending a concert\n- using hearing protection, such as ear mufflers and earplugs, in noisy environments\n- discussing the adverse effects of any medications with a doctor before using them\n\nLearn more about the [best earplugs for gigs, sleeping, and other situations](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/best-ear-plugs).\n\n## [FAQ]()\nHere are some questions people often ask about tinnitus.\n\n### Can tinnitus go away?\nTinnitus can go away if it results from a treatable cause, such as earwax, drug use, or an underlying condition. If it results from permanent damage to the ear or another structure, though, it will not disappear.\n\n### How can you get rid of tinnitus?\nThis depends on the cause. Not all causes of tinnitus go away, but some do. Treating any underlying problems may help.\n\n### What are the first signs of tinnitus?\nPeople with tinnitus may hear a ringing, buzzing, roaring, or whistling sound.\n\n## [Summary]()\nTinnitus is a sound a person hears that nobody else can hear. People describe it as ringing, hissing, buzzing, or roaring. It is common and often affects older adults, though it can happen at any age.\n\nIn most cases, tinnitus will not go away completely. However, it may resolve after treatment if it is due to earwax or medication. People can manage tinnitus through strategies such as masking, which means playing other sounds to distract their attention from tinnitus.\n\n- [Ear, Nose, and Throat](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/categories\/ent)\n- [Hearing \/ Deafness](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/categories\/hearing-deafness)\n- [Neurology \/ Neuroscience](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/categories\/neurology)\n- [Seniors \/ Aging](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/categories\/seniors)\n\n### How we reviewed this article:\nSources\n\nMedical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/process).\n\n- About tinnitus. (n.d.).  \n  <https:\/\/www.ata.org\/about-tinnitus>\n- Coey JG, et al. (2023). Hyperacusis.  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK557713\/>\n- Grossan M, et al. (2023). Tinnitus.  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK430809\/>\n- Park JM, et al. (2020). Management of palatal myoclonic tinnitus based on clinical characteristics: A large case series study.  \n  <https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/32406274\/>\n- Pienkowski, M. (2021). Loud music and leisure noise is a common cause of chronic hearing loss, tinnitus and hyperacusis.  \n  <https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC8073416\/>\n- Scherer RW, et al. (2019). Effect of tinnitus retraining therapy vs standard of care on tinnitus-related quality of life.  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6547112\/>\n- Tinnitus. (2023).  \n  <https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/tinnitus>\n- Tinnitus. (2024).  \n  <https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/tinnitus\/>\n\nShare this article\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.medicalnewstoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/Skye-Quamina-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105)\n\n[Medically reviewed]() by [Skye D. Quamina, Au.D., CCC-A]() — Written by [Kathleen Davis, FNP]() —  [Updated on July 4, 2025]()\n\n## Latest news\n- [Could probiotics, dietary changes help protect brain health as we age?](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/could-probiotics-dietary-changes-help-protect-brain-health-as-we-age)\n- [9 steps to improve heart health, per new dietary guidance from AHA](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/9-steps-improve-heart-health-diet-guidance-aha)\n- [AI model can accurately predict liver cancer risk, study suggests](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/ai-model-accurately-predict-liver-cancer-risk)\n- [AI-powered stroke tool linked to improved patient outcomes in large clinical trial](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/ai-powered-stroke-tool-linked-improved-patient-outcomes-large-clinical-trial)\n- [Eating same meals on repeat, and more at weekends may help you lose more weight](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/eating-same-meals-repeat-more-weekends-may-help-lose-more-weight)\n\n## Popular in: Hearing \/ Deafness\n- [Through my eyes: My first 48 hours with hearing aids](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/324995.php)\n- [Protein discovery could lead to new hearing loss treatments](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/325981.php)\n- [Hearing aids lower the chance of dementia, depression, and falling](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/326340.php)\n- [Testing hearing by looking at the eyes](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/327462.php)\n\n© 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/additional-information).\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/contact-us)\n- [Terms of Use](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/terms-of-use)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/privacy-policy)\n- Privacy Settings\n- [Advertising Policy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/ad-policy)\n\n- [Health Topics](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/directory\/a-b)\n- [Health Hubs](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/content-hubs)\n- [Medical Affairs](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/reviewers)\n- [Content Integrity](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/content-integrity)\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/newsletter)\n- © 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/additional-information).\n\n© 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/additional-information).\n\n[About](https:\/\/www.healthlinemedia.com\/?utm_source=medicalnewstoday.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=about)[Careers](https:\/\/rvohealth.com\/careers)[Advertise with us](https:\/\/www.healthlinemedia.com\/advertise?utm_source=medicalnewstoday.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=advertise)\n\nOUR BRANDS\n\n[Healthline](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/)[Medical News Today](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/)[Greatist](https:\/\/greatist.com\/)[Psych Central](https:\/\/psychcentral.com\/)[Bezzy](https:\/\/bezzy.com\/)\n\n![](http:\/\/b.scorecardresearch.com\/p?c1=2&c2=38584006&cv=3.9&cj=1&comscorekw=main)","attrs_readable_markdown":"A person may also hear hissing, roaring, or whistling sounds, which may be high or low pitched. The sound may be constant or only occur sometimes.\n\nIn this article, find out what tinnitus feels like, why it happens, when to contact a doctor, and how to manage it.\n\nTinnitus refers to atypical sounds in the ear. People commonly describe the sound as:\n\n- ringing\n- hissing\n- buzzing\n- roaring\n- whistling\n\nIn most cases, tinnitus is subjective. This means only the individual with tinnitus can hear the sound, and there is no way to measure it. In fewer than [1%](https:\/\/www.ata.org\/understanding-facts) of cases, other people can hear the noise.\n\nThe sound may:\n\n- affect one or both ears\n- be intermittent or continuous\n- be high or low pitched\n\nThe sound can change in volume and is often most noticeable at night or during quiet periods.\n\nSome people with tinnitus [also have](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK557713\/) hypersensitivity to noise, which is known as [hyperacusis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/hyperacusis\/). For example, they may find it uncomfortable to hear a door closing or a book dropping.\n\nSome people with tinnitus may hear a pulsing sound, like a heartbeat. This is a [rarer](https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/tinnitus) form of the condition called [pulsatile tinnitus](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/319494). Sometimes, this type of tinnitus indicates a problem with [blood vessels](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/artery-vs-vein\/) near the ear.\n\nMany factors can potentially lead to tinnitus. Among the most common is hearing loss.\n\nExposure to loud sounds or music can damage the ears, resulting in a ringing sound. Over time, this ringing sound may become permanent and occur with hearing loss.\n\nSome types of noise that can cause tinnitus include:\n\n- workplace noise, for example, in buildings or factories\n- the sound of gunshots and explosions, including on movie sets\n- loud music, such as working near powerful speakers\n\nPeople can also experience hearing loss as they age. Tinnitus is [common](https:\/\/www.ata.org\/about-tinnitus\/why-are-my-ears-ringing\/causes\/) in older adults for this reason.\n\nOther potential causes include:\n\n- obstructions in the ear, such as earwax\n- injuries to the brain, head, or neck\n- nasal or [sinus](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/149941\/) congestion\n- [temporomandibular joint disorders](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/tmj-treatment), which affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles and ligaments\n- acute [barotrauma](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/322215\/), which occurs when pressure changes rapidly in the ears\n\nAcute barotrauma can occur in people who dive, snorkel, or fly planes. It can also occur in people who are near blasts or explosions.\n\nVarious chronic conditions can also lead to tinnitus or make it worse, including:\n\n- high blood pressure\n- cardiovascular disease\n- fibromyalgia\n- Lyme disease\n- thyroid conditions\n- anxiety or depression\n- diabetes\n- Ménière’s disease\n- multiple sclerosis\n- palatal [myoclonus](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/myoclonus\/), a rare condition\n  [that involves](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/32406274\/)\n  rhythmic contractions of muscles in the roof of the mouth\n- in rare cases, [tumors](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/249141\/) in the ear or brain\n\nAdditionally, a number of medications [can cause](https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/tinnitus) tinnitus if a person starts using them or stops taking them. They include:\n\n- aspirin\n- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs\n- antibiotics\n- chemotherapy\n\nWhile tinnitus is not harmful, it can be distressing and affect a person’s well-being. Potential complications of tinnitus include:\n\n- stress and [anxiety](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/323454)\n- [depression](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/8933)\n- [sleep problems](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/9155)\n- difficulty concentrating\n\nIf tinnitus is a sign of an underlying condition, it may also mean a person needs medical treatment.\n\nA person should seek medical advice if:\n\n- they have new or sudden tinnitus or tinnitus with other symptoms\n- the sound pulses or whooshes like a heartbeat\n- there may be earwax or a foreign object in the ear\n- tinnitus affects the person’s sleep, ability to interact with others, and other aspects of daily life\n- tinnitus is causing anxiety or depression\n\nPeople should seek emergency medical help for tinnitus if it [occurs](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/tinnitus\/) after [a head injury](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/179837\/) or if the person also has:\n\n- tinnitus that another person\n  [can hear](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK430809\/)\n  , as this may be a sign of a serious condition\n- [vertigo](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/160900) (dizziness)\n- weakness in the facial muscles\n- sudden hearing loss\n\nIf a person seeks medical advice for tinnitus, the doctor may:\n\n- ask about symptoms\n- do a test to check for hearing loss\n- assess for conditions that may be causing tinnitus\n- refer the person to a specialist doctor for more investigations\n\nThe doctor may ask the following questions:\n\n- When and how did tinnitus first start?\n- Are the noises constant, intermittent, or pulsating?\n- Is there any hearing loss or dizziness?\n- Is there any pain or jaw clicking?\n- Have you had a recent illness or injury?\n- Has there been any exposure to loud noise?\n\nDepending on the cause of tinnitus, treatment [may involve](https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/tinnitus):\n\n- prompt care for an ear infection\n- removal of earwax\n- [discontinuation](https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/tinnitus)\n  or adjustment of medications that may be causing it\n- treatment of an underlying condition\n- treatment for hearing loss, if present\n- steps to manage or mask the sounds of tinnitus\n- counseling to help with related issues, such as anxiety or depression\n\nIf tinnitus does not go away, the following strategies may help:\n\nMasking\n\nSound therapy, or masking, involves using external noise to mask the perception of tinnitus. This could involve:\n\n- playing low level background music\n- playing white noise\n- wearing [sound generators](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/best-white-noise-machine\/) that fit in the ear and generate background noise or music\n- using a tabletop sound generator that plays relaxing sounds, such as waves or rain\n- using [hearing aids](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/types-of-hearing-aids) to amplify environmental sounds\n\nThese strategies aim to redirect the attention [away from](https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/tinnitus) tinnitus.\n\nCochlear implants and hearing aids\n\nAddressing underlying hearing loss [may help](https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/tinnitus) reduce the symptoms of tinnitus. A range of interventions can address hearing loss, from amplification devices to surgical implants.\n\nHearing aids often have programs to help mask tinnitus.\n\nBehavioral therapy\n\nIn addition to other therapies, people may try cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help them live with tinnitus. CBT can also address anxiety or depression.\n\nLifestyle tips\n\n- practicing [relaxation techniques](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/5-relaxation-techniques-to-try\/), such as [meditation](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/324839) or [deep breathing](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/breathing-techniques)\n- trying to avoid stress\n- developing a [sleep routine](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sleep-hygiene), for example, taking a bath and avoiding [caffeine](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/271707\/) before bed\n- joining a support group for people with tinnitus\n- avoiding total silence, which can make symptoms worse\n- seeking distraction, such as from a hobby, to direct attention away from tinnitus\n\nIt may not always be possible to prevent tinnitus, but people can take measures to reduce the risk by:\n\n- playing music or other sounds at a [moderate volume](https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC8073416\/)\n- using special earplugs that do not distort sound when attending a concert\n- using hearing protection, such as ear mufflers and earplugs, in noisy environments\n- discussing the adverse effects of any medications with a doctor before using them\n\nHere are some questions people often ask about tinnitus.\n\nCan tinnitus go away?\n\nTinnitus can go away if it results from a treatable cause, such as earwax, drug use, or an underlying condition. If it results from permanent damage to the ear or another structure, though, it will not disappear.\n\nHow can you get rid of tinnitus?\n\nThis depends on the cause. Not all causes of tinnitus go away, but some do. Treating any underlying problems may help.\n\nWhat are the first signs of tinnitus?\n\nPeople with tinnitus may hear a ringing, buzzing, roaring, or whistling sound.\n\nTinnitus is a sound a person hears that nobody else can hear. People describe it as ringing, hissing, buzzing, or roaring. It is common and often affects older adults, though it can happen at any age.\n\nIn most cases, tinnitus will not go away completely. However, it may resolve after treatment if it is due to earwax or medication. People can manage tinnitus through strategies such as masking, which means playing other sounds to distract their attention from tinnitus.","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	A person may also hear hissing, roaring, or whistling sounds, which may be high or low pitched. The sound may be constant or only occur sometimes. In this article, find out what tinnitus feels like, why it happens, when to contact a doctor, and how to manage it. Tinnitus refers to atypical sounds in the ear. People commonly describe the sound as: ringing hissing buzzing roaring whistling In most cases, tinnitus is subjective. This means only the individual with tinnitus can hear the sound, and there is no way to measure it. In fewer than 1% of cases, other people can hear the noise. The sound may: affect one or both ears be intermittent or continuous be high or low pitched The sound can change in volume and is often most noticeable at night or during quiet periods. Some people with tinnitus also have hypersensitivity to noise, which is known as hyperacusis . For example, they may find it uncomfortable to hear a door closing or a book dropping. Some people with tinnitus may hear a pulsing sound, like a heartbeat. This is a rarer form of the condition called pulsatile tinnitus . Sometimes, this type of tinnitus indicates a problem with blood vessels near the ear. Many factors can potentially lead to tinnitus. Among the most common is hearing loss. Exposure to loud sounds or music can damage the ears, resulting in a ringing sound. Over time, this ringing sound may become permanent and occur with hearing loss. Some types of noise that can cause tinnitus include: workplace noise, for example, in buildings or factories the sound of gunshots and explosions, including on movie sets loud music, such as working near powerful speakers People can also experience hearing loss as they age. Tinnitus is common in older adults for this reason. Other potential causes include: obstructions in the ear, such as earwax injuries to the brain, head, or neck nasal or sinus congestion temporomandibular joint disorders , which affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles and ligaments acute barotrauma , which occurs when pressure changes rapidly in the ears Acute barotrauma can occur in people who dive, snorkel, or fly planes. It can also occur in people who are near blasts or explosions. Various chronic conditions can also lead to tinnitus or make it worse, including: high blood pressure cardiovascular disease fibromyalgia Lyme disease thyroid conditions anxiety or depression diabetes Ménière’s disease multiple sclerosis palatal myoclonus , a rare condition that involves rhythmic contractions of muscles in the roof of the mouth in rare cases, tumors in the ear or brain Additionally, a number of medications can cause tinnitus if a person starts using them or stops taking them. They include: aspirin nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs antibiotics chemotherapy While tinnitus is not harmful, it can be distressing and affect a person’s well-being. Potential complications of tinnitus include: stress and anxiety depression sleep problems difficulty concentrating If tinnitus is a sign of an underlying condition, it may also mean a person needs medical treatment. A person should seek medical advice if: they have new or sudden tinnitus or tinnitus with other symptoms the sound pulses or whooshes like a heartbeat there may be earwax or a foreign object in the ear tinnitus affects the person’s sleep, ability to interact with others, and other aspects of daily life tinnitus is causing anxiety or depression People should seek emergency medical help for tinnitus if it occurs after a head injury or if the person also has: tinnitus that another person can hear , as this may be a sign of a serious condition vertigo (dizziness) weakness in the facial muscles sudden hearing loss If a person seeks medical advice for tinnitus, the doctor may: ask about symptoms do a test to check for hearing loss assess for conditions that may be causing tinnitus refer the person to a specialist doctor for more investigations The doctor may ask the following questions: When and how did tinnitus first start? Are the noises constant, intermittent, or pulsating? Is there any hearing loss or dizziness? Is there any pain or jaw clicking? Have you had a recent illness or injury? Has there been any exposure to loud noise? Depending on the cause of tinnitus, treatment may involve : prompt care for an ear infection removal of earwax discontinuation or adjustment of medications that may be causing it treatment of an underlying condition treatment for hearing loss, if present steps to manage or mask the sounds of tinnitus counseling to help with related issues, such as anxiety or depression If tinnitus does not go away, the following strategies may help: Masking Sound therapy, or masking, involves using external noise to mask the perception of tinnitus. This could involve: playing low level background music playing white noise wearing sound generators that fit in the ear and generate background noise or music using a tabletop sound generator that plays relaxing sounds, such as waves or rain using hearing aids to amplify environmental sounds These strategies aim to redirect the attention away from tinnitus. Cochlear implants and hearing aids Addressing underlying hearing loss may help reduce the symptoms of tinnitus. A range of interventions can address hearing loss, from amplification devices to surgical implants. Hearing aids often have programs to help mask tinnitus. Behavioral therapy In addition to other therapies, people may try cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help them live with tinnitus. CBT can also address anxiety or depression. Lifestyle tips practicing relaxation techniques , such as meditation or deep breathing trying to avoid stress developing a sleep routine , for example, taking a bath and avoiding caffeine before bed joining a support group for people with tinnitus avoiding total silence, which can make symptoms worse seeking distraction, such as from a hobby, to direct attention away from tinnitus It may not always be possible to prevent tinnitus, but people can take measures to reduce the risk by: playing music or other sounds at a moderate volume using special earplugs that do not distort sound when attending a concert using hearing protection, such as ear mufflers and earplugs, in noisy environments discussing the adverse effects of any medications with a doctor before using them Here are some questions people often ask about tinnitus. Can tinnitus go away? Tinnitus can go away if it results from a treatable cause, such as earwax, drug use, or an underlying condition. If it results from permanent damage to the ear or another structure, though, it will not disappear. How can you get rid of tinnitus? This depends on the cause. Not all causes of tinnitus go away, but some do. Treating any underlying problems may help. What are the first signs of tinnitus? People with tinnitus may hear a ringing, buzzing, roaring, or whistling sound. Tinnitus is a sound a person hears that nobody else can hear. People describe it as ringing, hissing, buzzing, or roaring. It is common and often affects older adults, though it can happen at any age. In most cases, tinnitus will not go away completely. However, it may resolve after treatment if it is due to earwax or medication. People can manage tinnitus through strategies such as masking, which means playing other sounds to distract their attention from tinnitus.
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[Bezzy Psoriasis](https://www.bezzypsoriasis.com/?utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect) Follow Us Subscribe Explore more in - Causes & Risk Factors - Home Remedies - Prognosis - Symptoms - Types - Complications - Management - Related Conditions - Treatment Tinnitus #### Related Topics - ### Causes & Risk Factors Causes & Risk Factors #### Related Articles - [Causes Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ear-feels-clogged-and-ringing) - [Anxiety](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pulsatile-tinnitus-anxiety) - [Head Injury](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tinnitus-after-head-injury) - [Tight Neck Muscles](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-tight-neck-muscles-cause-pulsatile-tinnitus) - [What Causes Flares?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/why-does-tinnitus-come-and-go) - ### Home Remedies Home Remedies #### Related Articles - [Home Remedies Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/natural-remedies-for-tinnitus) - [Magnesium](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/magnesium-for-tinnitus) - [B12](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/b12-for-tinnitus) - [Fasting](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/fasting-for-tinnitus) - ### Prognosis Prognosis #### Related Articles - [Prognosis Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-long-does-tinnitus-last) - [Signs of Improvement](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/signs-that-tinnitus-is-going-away) - [Is it Dangerous?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-tinnitus-dangerous) - ### Symptoms Symptoms #### Related Articles - [Symptoms Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-does-tinnitus-sound-like) - [Dizziness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tinnitus-and-dizziness) - [Ear Wax](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pulsatile-tinnitus-ear-wax) - ### Types Types #### Related Articles - [Types Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/types-of-tinnitus) - [Unilateral](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tinnitus-in-one-ear) - [Pulsatile In One Ear](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pulsatile-tinnitus-in-one-ear-only) - [Pulsatile](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319494) - [TMJ](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-does-tmj-tinnitus-sound-like) - ### Complications Complications #### Related Articles - [Affected Sleep](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-sleep-with-tinnitus) - [Memory Loss](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/does-tinnitus-cause-memory-loss) - ### Management Management #### Related Articles - [Potential Food Triggers](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/foods-that-trigger-tinnitus) - [Changes With Head Position](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pulsatile-tinnitus-changes-with-head-position) - [Retraining Therapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tinnitus-retraining-therapy) - [CBD](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cbd-for-tinnitus) - [Tips for Flying](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/flying-with-tinnitus) - [Massage](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/massage-for-tinnitus) - ### Related Conditions Related Conditions #### Related Articles - [Migrane](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tinnitus-and-migraine) - [Lupus](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/lupus-and-tinnitus) - [Hypertension](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tinnitus-and-hypertension) - ### Treatment Treatment #### Related Articles - [Medications](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/best-drugs-for-tinnitus) - [Surgery](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tinnitus-surgery) # What to know about tinnitus (ringing in the ears) ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.medicalnewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Skye-Quamina-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Skye D. Quamina, Au.D., CCC-A]() — Written by [Kathleen Davis, FNP]() — [Updated on July 4, 2025]() - [Symptoms](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156286#symptoms) - [Causes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156286#causes) - [Complications](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156286#complications) - [Contact a doctor](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156286#contact-a-doctor) - [Diagnosis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156286#diagnosis) - [Treatment](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156286#treatment) - [Living with tinnitus](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156286#living-with-tinnitus) - [Prevention](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156286#prevention) - [FAQ](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156286#faq) - [Summary](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156286#summary) ### Key takeaways - Tinnitus is characterized by the perception of sound, such as ringing, hissing, or buzzing, in one or both ears. It can be caused by a variety of factors including noise exposure, underlying health conditions, and certain medications. - While tinnitus itself is not dangerous, it can lead to complications like stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances, and may indicate an underlying medical condition that requires treatment. - Management strategies for persistent tinnitus include sound therapy to mask the disturbing sounds, addressing underlying hearing loss with aids or implants, and lifestyle adjustments like relaxation techniques and avoiding silence. A person may also hear hissing, roaring, or whistling sounds, which may be high or low pitched. The sound may be constant or only occur sometimes. In this article, find out what tinnitus feels like, why it happens, when to contact a doctor, and how to manage it. ## [Symptoms of tinnitus]() ![a man wearing yellow glasses has ringing in his ears](https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/01/male-ear-ringing-1296x728-header-1024x576.jpg) [Share on Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalnewstoday.com%2Farticles%2F156286&media=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.post.rvohealth.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F3%2F2025%2F01%2Fmale-ear-ringing-1296x728-header-1024x576.jpg&description=Tinnitus%20\(ringing%20in%20the%20ears\)%3A%20Causes%20and%20treatments%20 "Share on Pinterest") Elisaveta Ivanova/Getty Images Tinnitus refers to atypical sounds in the ear. People commonly describe the sound as: - ringing - hissing - buzzing - roaring - whistling In most cases, tinnitus is subjective. This means only the individual with tinnitus can hear the sound, and there is no way to measure it. In fewer than [1%](https://www.ata.org/understanding-facts) of cases, other people can hear the noise. The sound may: - affect one or both ears - be intermittent or continuous - be high or low pitched The sound can change in volume and is often most noticeable at night or during quiet periods. Some people with tinnitus [also have](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557713/) hypersensitivity to noise, which is known as [hyperacusis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hyperacusis/). For example, they may find it uncomfortable to hear a door closing or a book dropping. Some people with tinnitus may hear a pulsing sound, like a heartbeat. This is a [rarer](https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus) form of the condition called [pulsatile tinnitus](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319494). Sometimes, this type of tinnitus indicates a problem with [blood vessels](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/artery-vs-vein/) near the ear. [What causes fluttering in the ears?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/fluttering-in-ear) ## [Causes and risk factors]() Many factors can potentially lead to tinnitus. Among the most common is hearing loss. Exposure to loud sounds or music can damage the ears, resulting in a ringing sound. Over time, this ringing sound may become permanent and occur with hearing loss. Some types of noise that can cause tinnitus include: - workplace noise, for example, in buildings or factories - the sound of gunshots and explosions, including on movie sets - loud music, such as working near powerful speakers People can also experience hearing loss as they age. Tinnitus is [common](https://www.ata.org/about-tinnitus/why-are-my-ears-ringing/causes/) in older adults for this reason. Other potential causes include: - obstructions in the ear, such as earwax - injuries to the brain, head, or neck - nasal or [sinus](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/149941/) congestion - [temporomandibular joint disorders](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tmj-treatment), which affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles and ligaments - acute [barotrauma](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322215/), which occurs when pressure changes rapidly in the ears Acute barotrauma can occur in people who dive, snorkel, or fly planes. It can also occur in people who are near blasts or explosions. Various chronic conditions can also lead to tinnitus or make it worse, including: - high blood pressure - cardiovascular disease - fibromyalgia - Lyme disease - thyroid conditions - anxiety or depression - diabetes - Ménière’s disease - multiple sclerosis - palatal [myoclonus](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/myoclonus/), a rare condition [that involves](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32406274/) rhythmic contractions of muscles in the roof of the mouth - in rare cases, [tumors](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/249141/) in the ear or brain Additionally, a number of medications [can cause](https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus) tinnitus if a person starts using them or stops taking them. They include: - aspirin - nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - antibiotics - chemotherapy [What can I do if my ears are ringing after a concert?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321093) ## [Complications of tinnitus]() While tinnitus is not harmful, it can be distressing and affect a person’s well-being. Potential complications of tinnitus include: - stress and [anxiety](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323454) - [depression](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8933) - [sleep problems](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/9155) - difficulty concentrating If tinnitus is a sign of an underlying condition, it may also mean a person needs medical treatment. ## [When to see a doctor]() A person should seek medical advice if: - they have new or sudden tinnitus or tinnitus with other symptoms - the sound pulses or whooshes like a heartbeat - there may be earwax or a foreign object in the ear - tinnitus affects the person’s sleep, ability to interact with others, and other aspects of daily life - tinnitus is causing anxiety or depression People should seek emergency medical help for tinnitus if it [occurs](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/tinnitus/) after [a head injury](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/179837/) or if the person also has: - tinnitus that another person [can hear](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430809/) , as this may be a sign of a serious condition - [vertigo](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/160900) (dizziness) - weakness in the facial muscles - sudden hearing loss ## [Diagnosis]() If a person seeks medical advice for tinnitus, the doctor may: - ask about symptoms - do a test to check for hearing loss - assess for conditions that may be causing tinnitus - refer the person to a specialist doctor for more investigations The doctor may ask the following questions: - When and how did tinnitus first start? - Are the noises constant, intermittent, or pulsating? - Is there any hearing loss or dizziness? - Is there any pain or jaw clicking? - Have you had a recent illness or injury? - Has there been any exposure to loud noise? ## [Treatment for tinnitus]() Depending on the cause of tinnitus, treatment [may involve](https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus): - prompt care for an ear infection - removal of earwax - [discontinuation](https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus) or adjustment of medications that may be causing it - treatment of an underlying condition - treatment for hearing loss, if present - steps to manage or mask the sounds of tinnitus - counseling to help with related issues, such as anxiety or depression ## [If tinnitus does not go away]() If tinnitus does not go away, the following strategies may help: ### Masking Sound therapy, or masking, involves using external noise to mask the perception of tinnitus. This could involve: - playing low level background music - playing white noise - wearing [sound generators](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/best-white-noise-machine/) that fit in the ear and generate background noise or music - using a tabletop sound generator that plays relaxing sounds, such as waves or rain - using [hearing aids](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/types-of-hearing-aids) to amplify environmental sounds These strategies aim to redirect the attention [away from](https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus) tinnitus. An [audiologist](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hearing-doctor/) may offer [tinnitus retraining therapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tinnitus-retraining-therapy/), a specialized therapy that [may help](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6547112/) people live more comfortably with tinnitus. [What are the best hearing aids for tinnitus?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/4-of-the-best-hearing-aids-for-tinnitus) ### Cochlear implants and hearing aids Addressing underlying hearing loss [may help](https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus) reduce the symptoms of tinnitus. A range of interventions can address hearing loss, from amplification devices to surgical implants. Hearing aids often have programs to help mask tinnitus. ### Behavioral therapy In addition to other therapies, people may try cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help them live with tinnitus. CBT can also address anxiety or depression. ### Lifestyle tips Lifestyle changes that people [may find helpful](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/tinnitus/) include: - practicing [relaxation techniques](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/5-relaxation-techniques-to-try/), such as [meditation](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324839) or [deep breathing](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/breathing-techniques) - trying to avoid stress - developing a [sleep routine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sleep-hygiene), for example, taking a bath and avoiding [caffeine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/271707/) before bed - joining a support group for people with tinnitus - avoiding total silence, which can make symptoms worse - seeking distraction, such as from a hobby, to direct attention away from tinnitus [Can acupressure help with tinnitus?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ear-pressure-points) ## [Preventing tinnitus]() It may not always be possible to prevent tinnitus, but people can take measures to reduce the risk by: - playing music or other sounds at a [moderate volume](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8073416/) - using special earplugs that do not distort sound when attending a concert - using hearing protection, such as ear mufflers and earplugs, in noisy environments - discussing the adverse effects of any medications with a doctor before using them Learn more about the [best earplugs for gigs, sleeping, and other situations](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/best-ear-plugs). ## [FAQ]() Here are some questions people often ask about tinnitus. ### Can tinnitus go away? Tinnitus can go away if it results from a treatable cause, such as earwax, drug use, or an underlying condition. If it results from permanent damage to the ear or another structure, though, it will not disappear. ### How can you get rid of tinnitus? This depends on the cause. Not all causes of tinnitus go away, but some do. Treating any underlying problems may help. ### What are the first signs of tinnitus? People with tinnitus may hear a ringing, buzzing, roaring, or whistling sound. ## [Summary]() Tinnitus is a sound a person hears that nobody else can hear. People describe it as ringing, hissing, buzzing, or roaring. It is common and often affects older adults, though it can happen at any age. In most cases, tinnitus will not go away completely. However, it may resolve after treatment if it is due to earwax or medication. People can manage tinnitus through strategies such as masking, which means playing other sounds to distract their attention from tinnitus. - [Ear, Nose, and Throat](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/ent) - [Hearing / Deafness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/hearing-deafness) - [Neurology / Neuroscience](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/neurology) - [Seniors / Aging](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/seniors) ### How we reviewed this article: Sources Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/process). - About tinnitus. (n.d.). <https://www.ata.org/about-tinnitus> - Coey JG, et al. (2023). Hyperacusis. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557713/> - Grossan M, et al. (2023). Tinnitus. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430809/> - Park JM, et al. (2020). Management of palatal myoclonic tinnitus based on clinical characteristics: A large case series study. <https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32406274/> - Pienkowski, M. (2021). Loud music and leisure noise is a common cause of chronic hearing loss, tinnitus and hyperacusis. <https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8073416/> - Scherer RW, et al. (2019). Effect of tinnitus retraining therapy vs standard of care on tinnitus-related quality of life. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6547112/> - Tinnitus. (2023). <https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus> - Tinnitus. (2024). <https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/tinnitus/> Share this article ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.medicalnewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Skye-Quamina-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Skye D. 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Readable Markdown	A person may also hear hissing, roaring, or whistling sounds, which may be high or low pitched. The sound may be constant or only occur sometimes. In this article, find out what tinnitus feels like, why it happens, when to contact a doctor, and how to manage it. Tinnitus refers to atypical sounds in the ear. People commonly describe the sound as: - ringing - hissing - buzzing - roaring - whistling In most cases, tinnitus is subjective. This means only the individual with tinnitus can hear the sound, and there is no way to measure it. In fewer than [1%](https://www.ata.org/understanding-facts) of cases, other people can hear the noise. The sound may: - affect one or both ears - be intermittent or continuous - be high or low pitched The sound can change in volume and is often most noticeable at night or during quiet periods. Some people with tinnitus [also have](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557713/) hypersensitivity to noise, which is known as [hyperacusis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hyperacusis/). For example, they may find it uncomfortable to hear a door closing or a book dropping. Some people with tinnitus may hear a pulsing sound, like a heartbeat. This is a [rarer](https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus) form of the condition called [pulsatile tinnitus](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319494). Sometimes, this type of tinnitus indicates a problem with [blood vessels](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/artery-vs-vein/) near the ear. Many factors can potentially lead to tinnitus. Among the most common is hearing loss. Exposure to loud sounds or music can damage the ears, resulting in a ringing sound. Over time, this ringing sound may become permanent and occur with hearing loss. Some types of noise that can cause tinnitus include: - workplace noise, for example, in buildings or factories - the sound of gunshots and explosions, including on movie sets - loud music, such as working near powerful speakers People can also experience hearing loss as they age. Tinnitus is [common](https://www.ata.org/about-tinnitus/why-are-my-ears-ringing/causes/) in older adults for this reason. Other potential causes include: - obstructions in the ear, such as earwax - injuries to the brain, head, or neck - nasal or [sinus](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/149941/) congestion - [temporomandibular joint disorders](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tmj-treatment), which affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles and ligaments - acute [barotrauma](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322215/), which occurs when pressure changes rapidly in the ears Acute barotrauma can occur in people who dive, snorkel, or fly planes. It can also occur in people who are near blasts or explosions. Various chronic conditions can also lead to tinnitus or make it worse, including: - high blood pressure - cardiovascular disease - fibromyalgia - Lyme disease - thyroid conditions - anxiety or depression - diabetes - Ménière’s disease - multiple sclerosis - palatal [myoclonus](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/myoclonus/), a rare condition [that involves](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32406274/) rhythmic contractions of muscles in the roof of the mouth - in rare cases, [tumors](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/249141/) in the ear or brain Additionally, a number of medications [can cause](https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus) tinnitus if a person starts using them or stops taking them. They include: - aspirin - nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - antibiotics - chemotherapy While tinnitus is not harmful, it can be distressing and affect a person’s well-being. Potential complications of tinnitus include: - stress and [anxiety](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323454) - [depression](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8933) - [sleep problems](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/9155) - difficulty concentrating If tinnitus is a sign of an underlying condition, it may also mean a person needs medical treatment. A person should seek medical advice if: - they have new or sudden tinnitus or tinnitus with other symptoms - the sound pulses or whooshes like a heartbeat - there may be earwax or a foreign object in the ear - tinnitus affects the person’s sleep, ability to interact with others, and other aspects of daily life - tinnitus is causing anxiety or depression People should seek emergency medical help for tinnitus if it [occurs](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/tinnitus/) after [a head injury](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/179837/) or if the person also has: - tinnitus that another person [can hear](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430809/) , as this may be a sign of a serious condition - [vertigo](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/160900) (dizziness) - weakness in the facial muscles - sudden hearing loss If a person seeks medical advice for tinnitus, the doctor may: - ask about symptoms - do a test to check for hearing loss - assess for conditions that may be causing tinnitus - refer the person to a specialist doctor for more investigations The doctor may ask the following questions: - When and how did tinnitus first start? - Are the noises constant, intermittent, or pulsating? - Is there any hearing loss or dizziness? - Is there any pain or jaw clicking? - Have you had a recent illness or injury? - Has there been any exposure to loud noise? Depending on the cause of tinnitus, treatment [may involve](https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus): - prompt care for an ear infection - removal of earwax - [discontinuation](https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus) or adjustment of medications that may be causing it - treatment of an underlying condition - treatment for hearing loss, if present - steps to manage or mask the sounds of tinnitus - counseling to help with related issues, such as anxiety or depression If tinnitus does not go away, the following strategies may help: Masking Sound therapy, or masking, involves using external noise to mask the perception of tinnitus. This could involve: - playing low level background music - playing white noise - wearing [sound generators](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/best-white-noise-machine/) that fit in the ear and generate background noise or music - using a tabletop sound generator that plays relaxing sounds, such as waves or rain - using [hearing aids](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/types-of-hearing-aids) to amplify environmental sounds These strategies aim to redirect the attention [away from](https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus) tinnitus. Cochlear implants and hearing aids Addressing underlying hearing loss [may help](https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus) reduce the symptoms of tinnitus. A range of interventions can address hearing loss, from amplification devices to surgical implants. Hearing aids often have programs to help mask tinnitus. Behavioral therapy In addition to other therapies, people may try cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help them live with tinnitus. CBT can also address anxiety or depression. Lifestyle tips - practicing [relaxation techniques](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/5-relaxation-techniques-to-try/), such as [meditation](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324839) or [deep breathing](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/breathing-techniques) - trying to avoid stress - developing a [sleep routine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sleep-hygiene), for example, taking a bath and avoiding [caffeine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/271707/) before bed - joining a support group for people with tinnitus - avoiding total silence, which can make symptoms worse - seeking distraction, such as from a hobby, to direct attention away from tinnitus It may not always be possible to prevent tinnitus, but people can take measures to reduce the risk by: - playing music or other sounds at a [moderate volume](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8073416/) - using special earplugs that do not distort sound when attending a concert - using hearing protection, such as ear mufflers and earplugs, in noisy environments - discussing the adverse effects of any medications with a doctor before using them Here are some questions people often ask about tinnitus. Can tinnitus go away? Tinnitus can go away if it results from a treatable cause, such as earwax, drug use, or an underlying condition. If it results from permanent damage to the ear or another structure, though, it will not disappear. How can you get rid of tinnitus? This depends on the cause. Not all causes of tinnitus go away, but some do. Treating any underlying problems may help. What are the first signs of tinnitus? People with tinnitus may hear a ringing, buzzing, roaring, or whistling sound. Tinnitus is a sound a person hears that nobody else can hear. People describe it as ringing, hissing, buzzing, or roaring. It is common and often affects older adults, though it can happen at any age. In most cases, tinnitus will not go away completely. However, it may resolve after treatment if it is due to earwax or medication. People can manage tinnitus through strategies such as masking, which means playing other sounds to distract their attention from tinnitus.
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