🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 50 (from laksa140)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa050.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.verywellhealth.com/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.verywellhealth.com/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149","crawl_time":1776247581,"first_indexed_time":1663367812,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,verywellhealth!www,\/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149 s443","src_root_hash":"5681562863987870850","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Ringing in the Ears: Tinnitus Causes and Treatment","meta_descriptions":["Learn about the different types of tinnitus (ringing in the ears), why it happens, and how its causes are diagnosed and treated."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Key Takeaways\nRinging in the ears can be caused by hearing loss, earwax buildup, medications, diabetes, head injuries, and ear conditions.\nThe main types of tinnitus are subjective, which only you can hear, and objective, which your healthcare provider may hear during an exam.\nTinnitus can cause psychological effects like anxiety, depression, and problems with sleep, memory, and concentration.\nRinging in the ears, also called tinnitus, is not caused by an external sound. It can sound like ringing, but also a buzz, hum, whistle, or other sounds that no one else can hear, except in rare cases by a healthcare provider. The ringing can happen after short-term exposure to power tools or fireworks, for example, but it's a concern if it doesn't resolve.\nRinging in the ears often occurs as a result of another health condition. Common causes include\nhearing loss\n,\nearwax\nbuildup, medications, diabetes,\nhead injuries\n, and certain ear conditions.\nTreatment for ringing in the ears depends on the cause. Talk with your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of tinnitus.\nPeter Dazeley \/ Getty Images\nRinging in ears affects people differently. It may be faint or loud. The pitch of the sound can also vary. It can be erratic or, at times, seem to keep pace with your heartbeat. Types of sound can include:\nBuzzing\nRoaring\nWhistling\nHumming\nClicking\nHissing\nSquealing\nSome people may hear a whoosh, whistle, or buzz that happens all the time. Others may experience intermittent sounds, or hear them when they move their head a certain way. It also can be high-pitched or low, or even linked to sounds caused by ear wax, hairs, or bone structure changes.\nTypes of Ringing in the Ears\nPeople who have ear ringing usually experience one of the following types of the condition:\nSubjective tinnitus\nis linked to a sound that doesn't exist externally. Only you can hear it. It is often caused by nerve damage or a problem with the ear.\nObjective tinnitus\nis linked to a sound that originates inside or near your ear. Your healthcare provider may be able to hear the sound during an exam.\nOther Effects\nIn addition to physical symptoms, some people may experience psychological effects from ringing in the ears. These can cause distress and significantly impact quality of life:\nAnxiety\nDepression\nDisrupted sleep\nMemory problems\nConcentration problems\nSome studies have identified shared pathways in the brain for both tinnitus and stress-related disorders. The findings suggest that more research is needed to understand how tinnitus and mental health can affect each other, or which might influence the other.\nCauses\nRinging in the ears is caused by a disorder in the auditory system. This can involve the ear, the\ncochlear nerve\nthat connects the brain and the inner ear, and neurochemicals and areas of the brain key to processing sound.\nThe causes can range from simple to complex. For some people, there isn't an obvious reason for the sound they hear. Common causes of ringing in the ears include the following:\nHearing Loss\nRinging in the ears is often linked to sensorineural (inner ear) hearing loss. This type of damage results from harm to the inner ear or the nerve pathways that connect the inner ear to the brain.\nThis problem often occurs as the result of noise-induced hearing loss, either from one incident or over time, such as work-related exposure.\nRinging in the ears can also result from age-related hearing loss. This normal deterioration of hearing usually starts around age 60 and affects both ears. It often begins with the loss of high-frequency sounds, such as a whistle or squeal.\nOuter Ear Canal Obstruction\nOuter ear canal obstruction is often caused by an\nearwax blockage\n. When earwax builds up, it can block the ear canal and cause ringing in the ear.\nSources of middle ear obstruction can include:\nSinus congestion\nMiddle ear infection\nDirt or foreign objects\nLoose hair in the ear canal\nAbnormal bone growth in the ear (otosclerosis)\nHealth Conditions\nRinging in the ears is often linked to certain health conditions. These can include:\nEar infections\nMeniere’s disease\nDiabetes\nHead injuries\nBrain tumors\nMultiple sclerosis\nThyroid disorders\nTemporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders\nPulsatile tinnitus causes a rhythmic type of ringing that may be associated with a\nblood vessel\ndisorder, such as narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis) or high blood pressure affecting the cranium (skull).\nTell your healthcare provider if your tinnitus pulsates.\nMedications\nRinging in the ears can occur as a side effect of more than 200\nmedications\n. These medications are referred to as\nototoxic\n. In many cases, the problem disappears when the medication is stopped. These medications include:\nSalicylate\npain relievers (aspirin among them)\nNonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)\n, such as Advil and Motrin (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen)\nCertain antibiotics\nAnti-cancer drugs\nAnti-malaria drugs\nAntidepressants\nTreatment\nTreatment for ringing in the ears depends on the source of the problem and how it affects you. Temporary ringing can resolve without treatment. If your tinnitus is linked to a health problem, that issue is treated first.\nIf the ringing remains, the treatment goal is to reduce it and help you live with it. Depending on your age, medical history, current condition and medications, you may benefit from one or more of these treatments:\nHearing aids\nto correct hearing loss and allow your brain to hear the external sounds above the ringing\nCognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)\nto help you manage symptoms and learn how to lessen the impact ringing in ears may have on your quality of life\nWearable or tabletop sound generators\nto mask the tinnitus with a soft, pleasant sound, such as white noise or waves crashing\nAcoustic neural stimulation,\na technique that uses a device to stimulate change in the neural circuits in the brain to desensitize you from the sound\nCochlear implants\nto bring in outside sounds to mask the ringing\nAntidepressants\nand antianxiety medications\nto help improve your mood and sleep patterns\nSome people don't achieve the results they desire with traditional treatments and may want to try an alternative approach, such as\nacupuncture\nand\nbiofeedback\n.\nThese treatments may lack evidence of success or they may provide relief for some people.\nCheck with your healthcare provider before trying common\nnatural remedies for ringing in ears\n.\nComplications and Risk Factors\nRinging in the ears often occurs as the result of an underlying condition. The symptom doesn't cause harm on its own but can impact your quality of life and emotional well-being.\nRinging in the ears is associated with mental health problems that include:\nModerate to severe depression\nAnxiety\nSchizophrenia\nPost-traumatic stress disorder\nCognitive decline and\ndementia\nin older adults\nThe following factors can increase your risk of developing ringing in the ears:\nHigh noise exposure without ear protection\nAge\nHigh sound level tolerance\nRecurring ear infections\nHearing loss\nSmoking\nBe sure to protect your ears when you're around loud noises. Sources of hearing damage can include rock concerts, power tools, and fireworks.\nDiagnosis\nIf you have ringing in your ears, a healthcare provider (such as an audiologist, or hearing specialist) will likely start with a general physical exam and hearing exam to diagnose your condition.\nDepending on the results of these preliminary exams, your provider may advise the following tests:\nAudiography\nSpeech discrimination testing\nTympanometry\nAudiogram\nPitch masking\nMinimum masking level\nResidual inhibition\nMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI)\nComputed tomography (CT)\nWhen to See a Healthcare Provider\nContact your healthcare provider if you have ringing in your ears that continues longer than a week. Seek evaluation for any type of sound that interferes with your sleep and\/or concentration.\nIn some cases, tinnitus is associated with the risk of\nmental health problems\n. Report feelings of depression or anxiety to your healthcare provider as soon as you recognize them.\n15 Sources\nVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our\neditorial process\nto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.\nAmerican Academy of Family Physicians.\nTinnitus\n.\nNational Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders.\nTinnitus\n.\nHearing Health Foundation.\nDiagnosing tinnitus\n.\nLangguth B, de Ridder D, Schlee W, Kleinjung T.\nTinnitus: Clinical Insights in Its Pathophysiology-A Perspective\n.\nJ Assoc Res Otolaryngol\n. 2024 Jun;25(3):249-258. doi:10.1007\/s10162-024-00939-0\nGross J, Knipper M, Mazurek B.\nCandidate Key Proteins in Tinnitus-A Bioinformatic Study of Synaptic Transmission in the Cochlear Nucleus\n.\nBiomedicines\n. 2024 Jul 19;12(7):1615. doi:10.3390\/biomedicines12071615\nAmerican Tinnitus Association.\nFacts and causes\n.\nAmerican Speech-Language-Hearing Association.\nSensorineural hearing loss.\nNew York University Langone Health.\nDiagnosing Tinnitus\n.\nAmerican Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).\nOtotoxic medications (medication effects)\n.\nXu X, Xie H, Liu Z, Guo T, Zhang Y. \nEffects of acupuncture on the outcome of tinnitus: An overview of systematic reviews\n. \nFrontiers in Neurology\n. 2022;13. doi:10.3389\/fneur.2022.1061431\nHearing Health Foundation.\nProtecting your hearing means protecting your mental health\n.\nBasso L, Boecking B, Brueggemann P, Pedersen NL, Canlon B, Cederroth CR,\net al\n.\nGender-Specific Risk Factors and Comorbidities of Bothersome Tinnitus\n.\nFront Neurosci\n. 2020 Sep 23;14:706. doi:10.3389\/fnins.2020.00706\nBhatt, Ishan Sunilkumar.\nPrevalence of and risk factors for tinnitus and tinnitus-related handicap in a college-aged population\n.\nEar and Hearing.\n2018;39(3):517-526 doi:10.1097\/AUD.0000000000000503\nAmerican Tinnitus Association.\nMeasuring Tinnitus\n.\nAmerican Tinnitus Association. \nTinnitus patient navigator\n.\nBy\nAnna Giorgi\nGiorgi is a freelance writer with more than 25 years of experience writing health and wellness-related content.\nWas this page helpful?\nThanks for your feedback!\nWhat is your feedback?","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149#skip-to-content)\n\nMenu\n\n- [Health A-Z](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-a-z-4014770)\n  - 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Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.\n\nⒸ 2026 People Inc. — All rights reserved\n\n# Ringing in the Ears: Causes of Tinnitus and How It's Treated\nBy [Anna Giorgi](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/anna-giorgi-5217247)\n\nUpdated on December 16, 2025\n\nMedically reviewed by  [Sukaina Hasnie, MD](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/sukaina-hasnie-8772114)\n\nTable of Contents\n\nView All\n\nTable of Contents\n\n- [Symptoms](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149#toc-symptoms)\n- [Causes](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149#toc-causes)\n- [Treatment](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149#toc-treatment)\n- [Complications](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149#toc-complications-and-risk-factors)\n- [Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149#toc-diagnosis)\n- [When to See a Healthcare Provider](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149#toc-when-to-see-a-healthcare-provider)\n\n### Key Takeaways\n- Ringing in the ears can be caused by hearing loss, earwax buildup, medications, diabetes, head injuries, and ear conditions.\n- The main types of tinnitus are subjective, which only you can hear, and objective, which your healthcare provider may hear during an exam.\n- Tinnitus can cause psychological effects like anxiety, depression, and problems with sleep, memory, and concentration.\n\nRinging in the ears, also called tinnitus, is not caused by an external sound. It can sound like ringing, but also a buzz, hum, whistle, or other sounds that no one else can hear, except in rare cases by a healthcare provider. The ringing can happen after short-term exposure to power tools or fireworks, for example, but it's a concern if it doesn't resolve.\n\nRinging in the ears often occurs as a result of another health condition. Common causes include [hearing loss](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/hearing-loss-and-deafness-4014710), [earwax](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/everything-you-need-to-know-about-ear-wax-1192043) buildup, medications, diabetes, [head injuries](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/signs-and-symptoms-to-look-for-after-head-trauma-1720031), and certain ear conditions. Treatment for ringing in the ears depends on the cause. Talk with your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of tinnitus.\n\n![woman touching ear]()\n\n![woman touching ear](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/_H9-tHFva8Zy8glSD1iv1sufI8E=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-174038219-cab9048b114e4ceb8ebdc02636115c78.jpg)\n\nPeter Dazeley \/ Getty Images\n## Symptoms\nRinging in ears affects people differently. It may be faint or loud. The pitch of the sound can also vary. It can be erratic or, at times, seem to keep pace with your heartbeat. Types of sound can include:\n\n- Buzzing\n- Roaring\n- Whistling\n- Humming\n- [Clicking](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/crackling-in-ear-7498027)\n- Hissing\n- Squealing\n\nSome people may hear a whoosh, whistle, or buzz that happens all the time. Others may experience intermittent sounds, or hear them when they move their head a certain way. It also can be high-pitched or low, or even linked to sounds caused by ear wax, hairs, or bone structure changes.\n\n### Types of Ringing in the Ears\nPeople who have ear ringing usually experience one of the following types of the condition:\n\n- **Subjective tinnitus** is linked to a sound that doesn't exist externally. Only you can hear it. It is often caused by nerve damage or a problem with the ear.\n- **Objective tinnitus** is linked to a sound that originates inside or near your ear. Your healthcare provider may be able to hear the sound during an exam.\n### Other Effects\nIn addition to physical symptoms, some people may experience psychological effects from ringing in the ears. These can cause distress and significantly impact quality of life:\n\n- [Anxiety](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/severe-anxiety-5200310)\n- [Depression](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/clinical-depression-7643137)\n- [Disrupted sleep](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/sleep-disorders-4014648)\n- Memory problems\n- Concentration problems\n\nSome studies have identified shared pathways in the brain for both tinnitus and stress-related disorders. The findings suggest that more research is needed to understand how tinnitus and mental health can affect each other, or which might influence the other.\n\n### Help for Depression\nIf you or a loved one is struggling with depression, contact the [Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline](https:\/\/www.samhsa.gov\/find-help\/national-helpline) at **800-662-4357** for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.\n## Causes\nRinging in the ears is caused by a disorder in the auditory system. This can involve the ear, the [cochlear nerve](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/cochlear-nerve-anatomy-5088621) that connects the brain and the inner ear, and neurochemicals and areas of the brain key to processing sound.\n\nThe causes can range from simple to complex. For some people, there isn't an obvious reason for the sound they hear. Common causes of ringing in the ears include the following:\n\n### Hearing Loss\nRinging in the ears is often linked to sensorineural (inner ear) hearing loss. This type of damage results from harm to the inner ear or the nerve pathways that connect the inner ear to the brain.\n\nThis problem often occurs as the result of noise-induced hearing loss, either from one incident or over time, such as work-related exposure.\n\nRinging in the ears can also result from age-related hearing loss. This normal deterioration of hearing usually starts around age 60 and affects both ears. It often begins with the loss of high-frequency sounds, such as a whistle or squeal.\n\n### Outer Ear Canal Obstruction\nOuter ear canal obstruction is often caused by an [earwax blockage](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/all-about-ear-wax-blockage-1192040). When earwax builds up, it can block the ear canal and cause ringing in the ear.\n\nSources of middle ear obstruction can include:\n\n- [Sinus congestion](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/nasal-congestion-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5499061)\n- [Middle ear infection](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/ear-infection-symptoms-7498309)\n- Dirt or foreign objects\n- Loose hair in the ear canal\n- Abnormal bone growth in the ear (otosclerosis)\n### Health Conditions\nRinging in the ears is often linked to certain health conditions. These can include:\n\n- Ear infections\n- [Meniere’s disease](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/causes-of-vertigo-1298945)\n- [Diabetes](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/diabetes-8431797)\n- Head injuries\n- Brain tumors\n- [Multiple sclerosis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/multiple-sclerosis-overview-4581925)\n- Thyroid disorders\n- [Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-tmj-disorder-1192014)\n\nPulsatile tinnitus causes a rhythmic type of ringing that may be associated with a [blood vessel](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/vascular-disease-5095545) disorder, such as narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis) or high blood pressure affecting the cranium (skull). Tell your healthcare provider if your tinnitus pulsates.\n\n### Medications\nRinging in the ears can occur as a side effect of more than 200 [medications](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/medications-that-can-cause-tinnitus-8743066). These medications are referred to as [ototoxic](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/auditory-processing-disorder-in-adults-1048289). In many cases, the problem disappears when the medication is stopped. These medications include:\n\n- [Salicylate](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/safer-alternatives-to-nsaids-5095751) pain relievers (aspirin among them)\n- [Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/best-anti-inflammatory-medication-2548734), such as Advil and Motrin (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen)\n- Certain antibiotics\n- Anti-cancer drugs\n- Anti-malaria drugs\n- Antidepressants\n## Treatment\nTreatment for ringing in the ears depends on the source of the problem and how it affects you. Temporary ringing can resolve without treatment. If your tinnitus is linked to a health problem, that issue is treated first.\n\nIf the ringing remains, the treatment goal is to reduce it and help you live with it. Depending on your age, medical history, current condition and medications, you may benefit from one or more of these treatments:\n\n- [**Hearing aids**](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/hearing-aids-4014073) to correct hearing loss and allow your brain to hear the external sounds above the ringing\n- [**Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)**](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/dialectical-behavior-therapy-5212359)to help you manage symptoms and learn how to lessen the impact ringing in ears may have on your quality of life\n- **Wearable or tabletop sound generators** to mask the tinnitus with a soft, pleasant sound, such as white noise or waves crashing\n- **Acoustic neural stimulation,** a technique that uses a device to stimulate change in the neural circuits in the brain to desensitize you from the sound\n- **Cochlear implants** to bring in outside sounds to mask the ringing\n- [**Antidepressants**](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/anxiety-and-depression-8547945) **and antianxiety medications** to help improve your mood and sleep patterns\n\nSome people don't achieve the results they desire with traditional treatments and may want to try an alternative approach, such as [acupuncture](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/acupuncture-health-uses-88407) and [biofeedback](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/biofeedback-therapy-5211371). These treatments may lack evidence of success or they may provide relief for some people.\n\nCheck with your healthcare provider before trying common [natural remedies for ringing in ears](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/natural-remedies-for-tinnitus-89317).\n\n## Complications and Risk Factors\nRinging in the ears often occurs as the result of an underlying condition. The symptom doesn't cause harm on its own but can impact your quality of life and emotional well-being.\n\nRinging in the ears is associated with mental health problems that include:\n\n- Moderate to severe depression\n- Anxiety\n- [Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.verywellmind.com\/schizophrenia-4157221)\n- Post-traumatic stress disorder\n- Cognitive decline and [dementia](https:\/\/www.verywellmind.com\/what-is-dementia-5184552) in older adults\n\nThe following factors can increase your risk of developing ringing in the ears:\n\n- High noise exposure without ear protection\n- Age\n- High sound level tolerance\n- Recurring ear infections\n- Hearing loss\n- [Smoking](https:\/\/www.verywellmind.com\/a-day-in-the-life-of-an-ex-smoker-two-weeks-2825293)\n\nBe sure to protect your ears when you're around loud noises. Sources of hearing damage can include rock concerts, power tools, and fireworks.\n\n## Diagnosis\nIf you have ringing in your ears, a healthcare provider (such as an audiologist, or hearing specialist) will likely start with a general physical exam and hearing exam to diagnose your condition.\n\nDepending on the results of these preliminary exams, your provider may advise the following tests:\n\n- Audiography\n- Speech discrimination testing\n- Tympanometry\n- [Audiogram](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/low-frequency-hearing-loss-1048828)\n- Pitch masking\n- Minimum masking level\n- Residual inhibition\n- [Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-an-mri-and-what-does-it-do-3157069)\n- [Computed tomography (CT)](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-a-cat-scan-189603)\n## When to See a Healthcare Provider\nContact your healthcare provider if you have ringing in your ears that continues longer than a week. Seek evaluation for any type of sound that interferes with your sleep and\/or concentration.\n\nIn some cases, tinnitus is associated with the risk of [mental health problems](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/mental-illness-5113353). Report feelings of depression or anxiety to your healthcare provider as soon as you recognize them.\n\nRead more:\n\n- [Health A-Z](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-a-z-4014770)\n- [Ear, Nose & Throat](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/ear-nose-throat-4014732)\n\n15 Sources\n\nVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.\n\n1. American Academy of Family Physicians. [Tinnitus](https:\/\/familydoctor.org\/condition\/tinnitus\/).\n2. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. [Tinnitus](https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/tinnitus).\n3. Hearing Health Foundation. [Diagnosing tinnitus](https:\/\/hearinghealthfoundation.org\/diagnosing-tinnitus).\n4. Langguth B, de Ridder D, Schlee W, Kleinjung T. [Tinnitus: Clinical Insights in Its Pathophysiology-A Perspective](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/38532055\/). *J Assoc Res Otolaryngol*. 2024 Jun;25(3):249-258. doi:10.1007\/s10162-024-00939-0\n5. Gross J, Knipper M, Mazurek B. [Candidate Key Proteins in Tinnitus-A Bioinformatic Study of Synaptic Transmission in the Cochlear Nucleus](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/39062188\/). *Biomedicines*. 2024 Jul 19;12(7):1615. doi:10.3390\/biomedicines12071615\n6. American Tinnitus Association. [Facts and causes](https:\/\/www.ata.org\/about-tinnitus\/why-are-my-ears-ringing\/).\n7. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. [Sensorineural hearing loss.](https:\/\/www.asha.org\/public\/hearing\/sensorineural-hearing-loss\/)\n8. New York University Langone Health. [Diagnosing Tinnitus](https:\/\/nyulangone.org\/conditions\/tinnitus\/diagnosis).\n9. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). [Ototoxic medications (medication effects)](https:\/\/www.asha.org\/public\/hearing\/ototoxic-medications\/).\n10. Xu X, Xie H, Liu Z, Guo T, Zhang Y. [Effects of acupuncture on the outcome of tinnitus: An overview of systematic reviews](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3389\/fneur.2022.1061431). *Frontiers in Neurology*. 2022;13. doi:10.3389\/fneur.2022.1061431\n11. Hearing Health Foundation. [Protecting your hearing means protecting your mental health](https:\/\/hearinghealthfoundation.org\/blogs\/protecting-your-hearing-means-protecting-your-mental-health).\n12. Basso L, Boecking B, Brueggemann P, Pedersen NL, Canlon B, Cederroth CR, *et al*. [Gender-Specific Risk Factors and Comorbidities of Bothersome Tinnitus](https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC7539146\/). *Front Neurosci*. 2020 Sep 23;14:706. doi:10.3389\/fnins.2020.00706\n13. Bhatt, Ishan Sunilkumar. [Prevalence of and risk factors for tinnitus and tinnitus-related handicap in a college-aged population](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1097\/AUD.0000000000000503). *Ear and Hearing.* 2018;39(3):517-526 doi:10.1097\/AUD.0000000000000503\n14. American Tinnitus Association. [Measuring Tinnitus](https:\/\/www.ata.org\/about-tinnitus\/why-are-my-ears-ringing\/measuring-tinnitus\/).\n15. American Tinnitus Association. [Tinnitus patient navigator](https:\/\/ata.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Spring-2018-25.pdf).\n\n![Anna Zernone Giorgi]()\n\n![Anna Zernone Giorgi](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/HvvrHn0MKKanQVLF_EDPgcjkK4I=\/144x144\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/IMG_09172-9ca0040fa5e74df0b5aac42d8125d477.jpeg)\n\nBy [Anna Giorgi](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/anna-giorgi-5217247)   \n Giorgi is a freelance writer with more than 25 years of experience writing health and wellness-related content.\n\n[See Our Editorial Process](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/verywell-editorial-process-4777042)\n\n[Meet Our Medical Expert Board](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/meet-our-medical-expert-board-11762003)\n\nShare Feedback\n\nWas this page helpful?\n\nThanks for your feedback\\!\n\nWhat is your feedback?\n\nHelpful\n\nReport an Error\n\nOther\n\nRelated Articles\n\n[![Ear infection diagnosis]() ![Ear infection 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Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.\n\nⒸ 2026 People Inc. — All rights reserved\n\nVerywell Health is part of the [People Inc.](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/) publishing family.","attrs_readable_markdown":"### Key Takeaways\n- Ringing in the ears can be caused by hearing loss, earwax buildup, medications, diabetes, head injuries, and ear conditions.\n- The main types of tinnitus are subjective, which only you can hear, and objective, which your healthcare provider may hear during an exam.\n- Tinnitus can cause psychological effects like anxiety, depression, and problems with sleep, memory, and concentration.\n\nRinging in the ears, also called tinnitus, is not caused by an external sound. It can sound like ringing, but also a buzz, hum, whistle, or other sounds that no one else can hear, except in rare cases by a healthcare provider. The ringing can happen after short-term exposure to power tools or fireworks, for example, but it's a concern if it doesn't resolve.\n\nRinging in the ears often occurs as a result of another health condition. Common causes include [hearing loss](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/hearing-loss-and-deafness-4014710), [earwax](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/everything-you-need-to-know-about-ear-wax-1192043) buildup, medications, diabetes, [head injuries](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/signs-and-symptoms-to-look-for-after-head-trauma-1720031), and certain ear conditions. Treatment for ringing in the ears depends on the cause. Talk with your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of tinnitus.\n\nPeter Dazeley \/ Getty Images\n\nRinging in ears affects people differently. It may be faint or loud. The pitch of the sound can also vary. It can be erratic or, at times, seem to keep pace with your heartbeat. Types of sound can include:\n\n- Buzzing\n- Roaring\n- Whistling\n- Humming\n- [Clicking](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/crackling-in-ear-7498027)\n- Hissing\n- Squealing\n\nSome people may hear a whoosh, whistle, or buzz that happens all the time. Others may experience intermittent sounds, or hear them when they move their head a certain way. It also can be high-pitched or low, or even linked to sounds caused by ear wax, hairs, or bone structure changes.\n\n### Types of Ringing in the Ears\nPeople who have ear ringing usually experience one of the following types of the condition:\n\n- **Subjective tinnitus** is linked to a sound that doesn't exist externally. Only you can hear it. It is often caused by nerve damage or a problem with the ear.\n- **Objective tinnitus** is linked to a sound that originates inside or near your ear. Your healthcare provider may be able to hear the sound during an exam.\n### Other Effects\nIn addition to physical symptoms, some people may experience psychological effects from ringing in the ears. These can cause distress and significantly impact quality of life:\n\n- [Anxiety](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/severe-anxiety-5200310)\n- [Depression](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/clinical-depression-7643137)\n- [Disrupted sleep](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/sleep-disorders-4014648)\n- Memory problems\n- Concentration problems\n\nSome studies have identified shared pathways in the brain for both tinnitus and stress-related disorders. The findings suggest that more research is needed to understand how tinnitus and mental health can affect each other, or which might influence the other.\n\n## Causes\nRinging in the ears is caused by a disorder in the auditory system. This can involve the ear, the [cochlear nerve](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/cochlear-nerve-anatomy-5088621) that connects the brain and the inner ear, and neurochemicals and areas of the brain key to processing sound.\n\nThe causes can range from simple to complex. For some people, there isn't an obvious reason for the sound they hear. Common causes of ringing in the ears include the following:\n\n### Hearing Loss\nRinging in the ears is often linked to sensorineural (inner ear) hearing loss. This type of damage results from harm to the inner ear or the nerve pathways that connect the inner ear to the brain.\n\nThis problem often occurs as the result of noise-induced hearing loss, either from one incident or over time, such as work-related exposure.\n\nRinging in the ears can also result from age-related hearing loss. This normal deterioration of hearing usually starts around age 60 and affects both ears. It often begins with the loss of high-frequency sounds, such as a whistle or squeal.\n\n### Outer Ear Canal Obstruction\nOuter ear canal obstruction is often caused by an [earwax blockage](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/all-about-ear-wax-blockage-1192040). When earwax builds up, it can block the ear canal and cause ringing in the ear.\n\nSources of middle ear obstruction can include:\n\n- [Sinus congestion](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/nasal-congestion-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5499061)\n- [Middle ear infection](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/ear-infection-symptoms-7498309)\n- Dirt or foreign objects\n- Loose hair in the ear canal\n- Abnormal bone growth in the ear (otosclerosis)\n### Health Conditions\nRinging in the ears is often linked to certain health conditions. These can include:\n\n- Ear infections\n- [Meniere’s disease](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/causes-of-vertigo-1298945)\n- [Diabetes](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/diabetes-8431797)\n- Head injuries\n- Brain tumors\n- [Multiple sclerosis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/multiple-sclerosis-overview-4581925)\n- Thyroid disorders\n- [Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-tmj-disorder-1192014)\n\nPulsatile tinnitus causes a rhythmic type of ringing that may be associated with a [blood vessel](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/vascular-disease-5095545) disorder, such as narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis) or high blood pressure affecting the cranium (skull). Tell your healthcare provider if your tinnitus pulsates.\n\n### Medications\nRinging in the ears can occur as a side effect of more than 200 [medications](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/medications-that-can-cause-tinnitus-8743066). These medications are referred to as [ototoxic](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/auditory-processing-disorder-in-adults-1048289). In many cases, the problem disappears when the medication is stopped. These medications include:\n\n- [Salicylate](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/safer-alternatives-to-nsaids-5095751) pain relievers (aspirin among them)\n- [Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/best-anti-inflammatory-medication-2548734), such as Advil and Motrin (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen)\n- Certain antibiotics\n- Anti-cancer drugs\n- Anti-malaria drugs\n- Antidepressants\n## Treatment\nTreatment for ringing in the ears depends on the source of the problem and how it affects you. Temporary ringing can resolve without treatment. If your tinnitus is linked to a health problem, that issue is treated first.\n\nIf the ringing remains, the treatment goal is to reduce it and help you live with it. Depending on your age, medical history, current condition and medications, you may benefit from one or more of these treatments:\n\n- [**Hearing aids**](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/hearing-aids-4014073) to correct hearing loss and allow your brain to hear the external sounds above the ringing\n- [**Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)**](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/dialectical-behavior-therapy-5212359)to help you manage symptoms and learn how to lessen the impact ringing in ears may have on your quality of life\n- **Wearable or tabletop sound generators** to mask the tinnitus with a soft, pleasant sound, such as white noise or waves crashing\n- **Acoustic neural stimulation,** a technique that uses a device to stimulate change in the neural circuits in the brain to desensitize you from the sound\n- **Cochlear implants** to bring in outside sounds to mask the ringing\n- [**Antidepressants**](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/anxiety-and-depression-8547945) **and antianxiety medications** to help improve your mood and sleep patterns\n\nSome people don't achieve the results they desire with traditional treatments and may want to try an alternative approach, such as [acupuncture](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/acupuncture-health-uses-88407) and [biofeedback](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/biofeedback-therapy-5211371). These treatments may lack evidence of success or they may provide relief for some people.\n\nCheck with your healthcare provider before trying common [natural remedies for ringing in ears](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/natural-remedies-for-tinnitus-89317).\n\n## Complications and Risk Factors\nRinging in the ears often occurs as the result of an underlying condition. The symptom doesn't cause harm on its own but can impact your quality of life and emotional well-being.\n\nRinging in the ears is associated with mental health problems that include:\n\n- Moderate to severe depression\n- Anxiety\n- [Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.verywellmind.com\/schizophrenia-4157221)\n- Post-traumatic stress disorder\n- Cognitive decline and [dementia](https:\/\/www.verywellmind.com\/what-is-dementia-5184552) in older adults\n\nThe following factors can increase your risk of developing ringing in the ears:\n\n- High noise exposure without ear protection\n- Age\n- High sound level tolerance\n- Recurring ear infections\n- Hearing loss\n- [Smoking](https:\/\/www.verywellmind.com\/a-day-in-the-life-of-an-ex-smoker-two-weeks-2825293)\n\nBe sure to protect your ears when you're around loud noises. Sources of hearing damage can include rock concerts, power tools, and fireworks.\n\n## Diagnosis\nIf you have ringing in your ears, a healthcare provider (such as an audiologist, or hearing specialist) will likely start with a general physical exam and hearing exam to diagnose your condition.\n\nDepending on the results of these preliminary exams, your provider may advise the following tests:\n\n- Audiography\n- Speech discrimination testing\n- Tympanometry\n- [Audiogram](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/low-frequency-hearing-loss-1048828)\n- Pitch masking\n- Minimum masking level\n- Residual inhibition\n- [Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-an-mri-and-what-does-it-do-3157069)\n- [Computed tomography (CT)](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-a-cat-scan-189603)\n## When to See a Healthcare Provider\nContact your healthcare provider if you have ringing in your ears that continues longer than a week. Seek evaluation for any type of sound that interferes with your sleep and\/or concentration.\n\nIn some cases, tinnitus is associated with the risk of [mental health problems](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/mental-illness-5113353). Report feelings of depression or anxiety to your healthcare provider as soon as you recognize them.\n\n15 Sources\n\nVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.\n\n1. American Academy of Family Physicians. [Tinnitus](https:\/\/familydoctor.org\/condition\/tinnitus\/).\n2. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. [Tinnitus](https:\/\/www.nidcd.nih.gov\/health\/tinnitus).\n3. Hearing Health Foundation. [Diagnosing tinnitus](https:\/\/hearinghealthfoundation.org\/diagnosing-tinnitus).\n4. Langguth B, de Ridder D, Schlee W, Kleinjung T. [Tinnitus: Clinical Insights in Its Pathophysiology-A Perspective](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/38532055\/). *J Assoc Res Otolaryngol*. 2024 Jun;25(3):249-258. doi:10.1007\/s10162-024-00939-0\n5. Gross J, Knipper M, Mazurek B. [Candidate Key Proteins in Tinnitus-A Bioinformatic Study of Synaptic Transmission in the Cochlear Nucleus](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/39062188\/). *Biomedicines*. 2024 Jul 19;12(7):1615. doi:10.3390\/biomedicines12071615\n6. American Tinnitus Association. [Facts and causes](https:\/\/www.ata.org\/about-tinnitus\/why-are-my-ears-ringing\/).\n7. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. [Sensorineural hearing loss.](https:\/\/www.asha.org\/public\/hearing\/sensorineural-hearing-loss\/)\n8. New York University Langone Health. [Diagnosing Tinnitus](https:\/\/nyulangone.org\/conditions\/tinnitus\/diagnosis).\n9. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). [Ototoxic medications (medication effects)](https:\/\/www.asha.org\/public\/hearing\/ototoxic-medications\/).\n10. Xu X, Xie H, Liu Z, Guo T, Zhang Y. [Effects of acupuncture on the outcome of tinnitus: An overview of systematic reviews](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3389\/fneur.2022.1061431). *Frontiers in Neurology*. 2022;13. doi:10.3389\/fneur.2022.1061431\n11. Hearing Health Foundation. [Protecting your hearing means protecting your mental health](https:\/\/hearinghealthfoundation.org\/blogs\/protecting-your-hearing-means-protecting-your-mental-health).\n12. Basso L, Boecking B, Brueggemann P, Pedersen NL, Canlon B, Cederroth CR, *et al*. [Gender-Specific Risk Factors and Comorbidities of Bothersome Tinnitus](https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC7539146\/). *Front Neurosci*. 2020 Sep 23;14:706. doi:10.3389\/fnins.2020.00706\n13. Bhatt, Ishan Sunilkumar. [Prevalence of and risk factors for tinnitus and tinnitus-related handicap in a college-aged population](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1097\/AUD.0000000000000503). *Ear and Hearing.* 2018;39(3):517-526 doi:10.1097\/AUD.0000000000000503\n14. American Tinnitus Association. [Measuring Tinnitus](https:\/\/www.ata.org\/about-tinnitus\/why-are-my-ears-ringing\/measuring-tinnitus\/).\n15. American Tinnitus Association. [Tinnitus patient navigator](https:\/\/ata.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Spring-2018-25.pdf).\n\n![Anna Zernone Giorgi](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/HvvrHn0MKKanQVLF_EDPgcjkK4I=\/144x144\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/IMG_09172-9ca0040fa5e74df0b5aac42d8125d477.jpeg)\n\nBy [Anna Giorgi](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/anna-giorgi-5217247)   \n Giorgi is a freelance writer with more than 25 years of experience writing health and wellness-related content.\n\nWas this page helpful?\n\nThanks for your feedback\\!\n\nWhat is your feedback?","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Key Takeaways Ringing in the ears can be caused by hearing loss, earwax buildup, medications, diabetes, head injuries, and ear conditions. The main types of tinnitus are subjective, which only you can hear, and objective, which your healthcare provider may hear during an exam. Tinnitus can cause psychological effects like anxiety, depression, and problems with sleep, memory, and concentration. Ringing in the ears, also called tinnitus, is not caused by an external sound. It can sound like ringing, but also a buzz, hum, whistle, or other sounds that no one else can hear, except in rare cases by a healthcare provider. The ringing can happen after short-term exposure to power tools or fireworks, for example, but it's a concern if it doesn't resolve. Ringing in the ears often occurs as a result of another health condition. Common causes include hearing loss , earwax buildup, medications, diabetes, head injuries , and certain ear conditions. Treatment for ringing in the ears depends on the cause. Talk with your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of tinnitus. Peter Dazeley / Getty Images Ringing in ears affects people differently. It may be faint or loud. The pitch of the sound can also vary. It can be erratic or, at times, seem to keep pace with your heartbeat. Types of sound can include: Buzzing Roaring Whistling Humming Clicking Hissing Squealing Some people may hear a whoosh, whistle, or buzz that happens all the time. Others may experience intermittent sounds, or hear them when they move their head a certain way. It also can be high-pitched or low, or even linked to sounds caused by ear wax, hairs, or bone structure changes. Types of Ringing in the Ears People who have ear ringing usually experience one of the following types of the condition: Subjective tinnitus is linked to a sound that doesn't exist externally. Only you can hear it. It is often caused by nerve damage or a problem with the ear. Objective tinnitus is linked to a sound that originates inside or near your ear. Your healthcare provider may be able to hear the sound during an exam. Other Effects In addition to physical symptoms, some people may experience psychological effects from ringing in the ears. These can cause distress and significantly impact quality of life: Anxiety Depression Disrupted sleep Memory problems Concentration problems Some studies have identified shared pathways in the brain for both tinnitus and stress-related disorders. The findings suggest that more research is needed to understand how tinnitus and mental health can affect each other, or which might influence the other. Causes Ringing in the ears is caused by a disorder in the auditory system. This can involve the ear, the cochlear nerve that connects the brain and the inner ear, and neurochemicals and areas of the brain key to processing sound. The causes can range from simple to complex. For some people, there isn't an obvious reason for the sound they hear. Common causes of ringing in the ears include the following: Hearing Loss Ringing in the ears is often linked to sensorineural (inner ear) hearing loss. This type of damage results from harm to the inner ear or the nerve pathways that connect the inner ear to the brain. This problem often occurs as the result of noise-induced hearing loss, either from one incident or over time, such as work-related exposure. Ringing in the ears can also result from age-related hearing loss. This normal deterioration of hearing usually starts around age 60 and affects both ears. It often begins with the loss of high-frequency sounds, such as a whistle or squeal. Outer Ear Canal Obstruction Outer ear canal obstruction is often caused by an earwax blockage . When earwax builds up, it can block the ear canal and cause ringing in the ear. Sources of middle ear obstruction can include: Sinus congestion Middle ear infection Dirt or foreign objects Loose hair in the ear canal Abnormal bone growth in the ear (otosclerosis) Health Conditions Ringing in the ears is often linked to certain health conditions. These can include: Ear infections Meniere’s disease Diabetes Head injuries Brain tumors Multiple sclerosis Thyroid disorders Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders Pulsatile tinnitus causes a rhythmic type of ringing that may be associated with a blood vessel disorder, such as narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis) or high blood pressure affecting the cranium (skull). Tell your healthcare provider if your tinnitus pulsates. Medications Ringing in the ears can occur as a side effect of more than 200 medications . These medications are referred to as ototoxic . In many cases, the problem disappears when the medication is stopped. These medications include: Salicylate pain relievers (aspirin among them) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) , such as Advil and Motrin (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen) Certain antibiotics Anti-cancer drugs Anti-malaria drugs Antidepressants Treatment Treatment for ringing in the ears depends on the source of the problem and how it affects you. Temporary ringing can resolve without treatment. If your tinnitus is linked to a health problem, that issue is treated first. If the ringing remains, the treatment goal is to reduce it and help you live with it. Depending on your age, medical history, current condition and medications, you may benefit from one or more of these treatments: Hearing aids to correct hearing loss and allow your brain to hear the external sounds above the ringing Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you manage symptoms and learn how to lessen the impact ringing in ears may have on your quality of life Wearable or tabletop sound generators to mask the tinnitus with a soft, pleasant sound, such as white noise or waves crashing Acoustic neural stimulation, a technique that uses a device to stimulate change in the neural circuits in the brain to desensitize you from the sound Cochlear implants to bring in outside sounds to mask the ringing Antidepressants and antianxiety medications to help improve your mood and sleep patterns Some people don't achieve the results they desire with traditional treatments and may want to try an alternative approach, such as acupuncture and biofeedback . These treatments may lack evidence of success or they may provide relief for some people. Check with your healthcare provider before trying common natural remedies for ringing in ears . Complications and Risk Factors Ringing in the ears often occurs as the result of an underlying condition. The symptom doesn't cause harm on its own but can impact your quality of life and emotional well-being. Ringing in the ears is associated with mental health problems that include: Moderate to severe depression Anxiety Schizophrenia Post-traumatic stress disorder Cognitive decline and dementia in older adults The following factors can increase your risk of developing ringing in the ears: High noise exposure without ear protection Age High sound level tolerance Recurring ear infections Hearing loss Smoking Be sure to protect your ears when you're around loud noises. Sources of hearing damage can include rock concerts, power tools, and fireworks. Diagnosis If you have ringing in your ears, a healthcare provider (such as an audiologist, or hearing specialist) will likely start with a general physical exam and hearing exam to diagnose your condition. Depending on the results of these preliminary exams, your provider may advise the following tests: Audiography Speech discrimination testing Tympanometry Audiogram Pitch masking Minimum masking level Residual inhibition Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Computed tomography (CT) When to See a Healthcare Provider Contact your healthcare provider if you have ringing in your ears that continues longer than a week. Seek evaluation for any type of sound that interferes with your sleep and/or concentration. In some cases, tinnitus is associated with the risk of mental health problems . Report feelings of depression or anxiety to your healthcare provider as soon as you recognize them. 15 Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. American Academy of Family Physicians. Tinnitus . National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Tinnitus . Hearing Health Foundation. Diagnosing tinnitus . Langguth B, de Ridder D, Schlee W, Kleinjung T. Tinnitus: Clinical Insights in Its Pathophysiology-A Perspective . J Assoc Res Otolaryngol . 2024 Jun;25(3):249-258. doi:10.1007/s10162-024-00939-0 Gross J, Knipper M, Mazurek B. Candidate Key Proteins in Tinnitus-A Bioinformatic Study of Synaptic Transmission in the Cochlear Nucleus . Biomedicines . 2024 Jul 19;12(7):1615. doi:10.3390/biomedicines12071615 American Tinnitus Association. Facts and causes . American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Sensorineural hearing loss. New York University Langone Health. Diagnosing Tinnitus . American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Ototoxic medications (medication effects) . Xu X, Xie H, Liu Z, Guo T, Zhang Y. Effects of acupuncture on the outcome of tinnitus: An overview of systematic reviews . Frontiers in Neurology . 2022;13. doi:10.3389/fneur.2022.1061431 Hearing Health Foundation. Protecting your hearing means protecting your mental health . Basso L, Boecking B, Brueggemann P, Pedersen NL, Canlon B, Cederroth CR, et al . Gender-Specific Risk Factors and Comorbidities of Bothersome Tinnitus . Front Neurosci . 2020 Sep 23;14:706. doi:10.3389/fnins.2020.00706 Bhatt, Ishan Sunilkumar. Prevalence of and risk factors for tinnitus and tinnitus-related handicap in a college-aged population . Ear and Hearing. 2018;39(3):517-526 doi:10.1097/AUD.0000000000000503 American Tinnitus Association. Measuring Tinnitus . American Tinnitus Association. Tinnitus patient navigator . By Anna Giorgi Giorgi is a freelance writer with more than 25 years of experience writing health and wellness-related content. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback?
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Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Ⓒ 2026 People Inc. — All rights reserved # Ringing in the Ears: Causes of Tinnitus and How It's Treated By [Anna Giorgi](https://www.verywellhealth.com/anna-giorgi-5217247) Updated on December 16, 2025 Medically reviewed by [Sukaina Hasnie, MD](https://www.verywellhealth.com/sukaina-hasnie-8772114) Table of Contents View All Table of Contents - [Symptoms](https://www.verywellhealth.com/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149#toc-symptoms) - [Causes](https://www.verywellhealth.com/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149#toc-causes) - [Treatment](https://www.verywellhealth.com/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149#toc-treatment) - [Complications](https://www.verywellhealth.com/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149#toc-complications-and-risk-factors) - [Diagnosis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149#toc-diagnosis) - [When to See a Healthcare Provider](https://www.verywellhealth.com/ringing-in-ears-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5323149#toc-when-to-see-a-healthcare-provider) ### Key Takeaways - Ringing in the ears can be caused by hearing loss, earwax buildup, medications, diabetes, head injuries, and ear conditions. - The main types of tinnitus are subjective, which only you can hear, and objective, which your healthcare provider may hear during an exam. - Tinnitus can cause psychological effects like anxiety, depression, and problems with sleep, memory, and concentration. Ringing in the ears, also called tinnitus, is not caused by an external sound. It can sound like ringing, but also a buzz, hum, whistle, or other sounds that no one else can hear, except in rare cases by a healthcare provider. The ringing can happen after short-term exposure to power tools or fireworks, for example, but it's a concern if it doesn't resolve. Ringing in the ears often occurs as a result of another health condition. Common causes include [hearing loss](https://www.verywellhealth.com/hearing-loss-and-deafness-4014710), [earwax](https://www.verywellhealth.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-ear-wax-1192043) buildup, medications, diabetes, [head injuries](https://www.verywellhealth.com/signs-and-symptoms-to-look-for-after-head-trauma-1720031), and certain ear conditions. Treatment for ringing in the ears depends on the cause. Talk with your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of tinnitus. ![woman touching ear]() ![woman touching ear](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/_H9-tHFva8Zy8glSD1iv1sufI8E=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-174038219-cab9048b114e4ceb8ebdc02636115c78.jpg) Peter Dazeley / Getty Images ## Symptoms Ringing in ears affects people differently. It may be faint or loud. The pitch of the sound can also vary. It can be erratic or, at times, seem to keep pace with your heartbeat. Types of sound can include: - Buzzing - Roaring - Whistling - Humming - [Clicking](https://www.verywellhealth.com/crackling-in-ear-7498027) - Hissing - Squealing Some people may hear a whoosh, whistle, or buzz that happens all the time. Others may experience intermittent sounds, or hear them when they move their head a certain way. It also can be high-pitched or low, or even linked to sounds caused by ear wax, hairs, or bone structure changes. ### Types of Ringing in the Ears People who have ear ringing usually experience one of the following types of the condition: - Subjective tinnitus is linked to a sound that doesn't exist externally. Only you can hear it. It is often caused by nerve damage or a problem with the ear. - Objective tinnitus is linked to a sound that originates inside or near your ear. Your healthcare provider may be able to hear the sound during an exam. ### Other Effects In addition to physical symptoms, some people may experience psychological effects from ringing in the ears. These can cause distress and significantly impact quality of life: - [Anxiety](https://www.verywellhealth.com/severe-anxiety-5200310) - [Depression](https://www.verywellhealth.com/clinical-depression-7643137) - [Disrupted sleep](https://www.verywellhealth.com/sleep-disorders-4014648) - Memory problems - Concentration problems Some studies have identified shared pathways in the brain for both tinnitus and stress-related disorders. The findings suggest that more research is needed to understand how tinnitus and mental health can affect each other, or which might influence the other. ### Help for Depression If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, contact the [Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline](https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline) at 800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area. ## Causes Ringing in the ears is caused by a disorder in the auditory system. This can involve the ear, the [cochlear nerve](https://www.verywellhealth.com/cochlear-nerve-anatomy-5088621) that connects the brain and the inner ear, and neurochemicals and areas of the brain key to processing sound. The causes can range from simple to complex. For some people, there isn't an obvious reason for the sound they hear. Common causes of ringing in the ears include the following: ### Hearing Loss Ringing in the ears is often linked to sensorineural (inner ear) hearing loss. This type of damage results from harm to the inner ear or the nerve pathways that connect the inner ear to the brain. This problem often occurs as the result of noise-induced hearing loss, either from one incident or over time, such as work-related exposure. Ringing in the ears can also result from age-related hearing loss. This normal deterioration of hearing usually starts around age 60 and affects both ears. It often begins with the loss of high-frequency sounds, such as a whistle or squeal. ### Outer Ear Canal Obstruction Outer ear canal obstruction is often caused by an [earwax blockage](https://www.verywellhealth.com/all-about-ear-wax-blockage-1192040). When earwax builds up, it can block the ear canal and cause ringing in the ear. Sources of middle ear obstruction can include: - [Sinus congestion](https://www.verywellhealth.com/nasal-congestion-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5499061) - [Middle ear infection](https://www.verywellhealth.com/ear-infection-symptoms-7498309) - Dirt or foreign objects - Loose hair in the ear canal - Abnormal bone growth in the ear (otosclerosis) ### Health Conditions Ringing in the ears is often linked to certain health conditions. These can include: - Ear infections - [Meniere’s disease](https://www.verywellhealth.com/causes-of-vertigo-1298945) - [Diabetes](https://www.verywellhealth.com/diabetes-8431797) - Head injuries - Brain tumors - [Multiple sclerosis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/multiple-sclerosis-overview-4581925) - Thyroid disorders - [Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-tmj-disorder-1192014) Pulsatile tinnitus causes a rhythmic type of ringing that may be associated with a [blood vessel](https://www.verywellhealth.com/vascular-disease-5095545) disorder, such as narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis) or high blood pressure affecting the cranium (skull). Tell your healthcare provider if your tinnitus pulsates. ### Medications Ringing in the ears can occur as a side effect of more than 200 [medications](https://www.verywellhealth.com/medications-that-can-cause-tinnitus-8743066). These medications are referred to as [ototoxic](https://www.verywellhealth.com/auditory-processing-disorder-in-adults-1048289). In many cases, the problem disappears when the medication is stopped. These medications include: - [Salicylate](https://www.verywellhealth.com/safer-alternatives-to-nsaids-5095751) pain relievers (aspirin among them) - [Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)](https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-anti-inflammatory-medication-2548734), such as Advil and Motrin (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen) - Certain antibiotics - Anti-cancer drugs - Anti-malaria drugs - Antidepressants ## Treatment Treatment for ringing in the ears depends on the source of the problem and how it affects you. Temporary ringing can resolve without treatment. If your tinnitus is linked to a health problem, that issue is treated first. If the ringing remains, the treatment goal is to reduce it and help you live with it. Depending on your age, medical history, current condition and medications, you may benefit from one or more of these treatments: - [Hearing aids](https://www.verywellhealth.com/hearing-aids-4014073) to correct hearing loss and allow your brain to hear the external sounds above the ringing - [Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)](https://www.verywellhealth.com/dialectical-behavior-therapy-5212359)to help you manage symptoms and learn how to lessen the impact ringing in ears may have on your quality of life - Wearable or tabletop sound generators to mask the tinnitus with a soft, pleasant sound, such as white noise or waves crashing - Acoustic neural stimulation, a technique that uses a device to stimulate change in the neural circuits in the brain to desensitize you from the sound - Cochlear implants to bring in outside sounds to mask the ringing - [Antidepressants](https://www.verywellhealth.com/anxiety-and-depression-8547945) and antianxiety medications to help improve your mood and sleep patterns Some people don't achieve the results they desire with traditional treatments and may want to try an alternative approach, such as [acupuncture](https://www.verywellhealth.com/acupuncture-health-uses-88407) and [biofeedback](https://www.verywellhealth.com/biofeedback-therapy-5211371). These treatments may lack evidence of success or they may provide relief for some people. Check with your healthcare provider before trying common [natural remedies for ringing in ears](https://www.verywellhealth.com/natural-remedies-for-tinnitus-89317). ## Complications and Risk Factors Ringing in the ears often occurs as the result of an underlying condition. The symptom doesn't cause harm on its own but can impact your quality of life and emotional well-being. Ringing in the ears is associated with mental health problems that include: - Moderate to severe depression - Anxiety - [Schizophrenia](https://www.verywellmind.com/schizophrenia-4157221) - Post-traumatic stress disorder - Cognitive decline and [dementia](https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-dementia-5184552) in older adults The following factors can increase your risk of developing ringing in the ears: - High noise exposure without ear protection - Age - High sound level tolerance - Recurring ear infections - Hearing loss - [Smoking](https://www.verywellmind.com/a-day-in-the-life-of-an-ex-smoker-two-weeks-2825293) Be sure to protect your ears when you're around loud noises. Sources of hearing damage can include rock concerts, power tools, and fireworks. ## Diagnosis If you have ringing in your ears, a healthcare provider (such as an audiologist, or hearing specialist) will likely start with a general physical exam and hearing exam to diagnose your condition. Depending on the results of these preliminary exams, your provider may advise the following tests: - Audiography - Speech discrimination testing - Tympanometry - [Audiogram](https://www.verywellhealth.com/low-frequency-hearing-loss-1048828) - Pitch masking - Minimum masking level - Residual inhibition - [Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-an-mri-and-what-does-it-do-3157069) - [Computed tomography (CT)](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-a-cat-scan-189603) ## When to See a Healthcare Provider Contact your healthcare provider if you have ringing in your ears that continues longer than a week. Seek evaluation for any type of sound that interferes with your sleep and/or concentration. In some cases, tinnitus is associated with the risk of [mental health problems](https://www.verywellhealth.com/mental-illness-5113353). Report feelings of depression or anxiety to your healthcare provider as soon as you recognize them. Read more: - [Health A-Z](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-a-z-4014770) - [Ear, Nose & Throat](https://www.verywellhealth.com/ear-nose-throat-4014732) 15 Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https://www.verywellhealth.com/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. 1. American Academy of Family Physicians. [Tinnitus](https://familydoctor.org/condition/tinnitus/). 2. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. [Tinnitus](https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus). 3. Hearing Health Foundation. [Diagnosing tinnitus](https://hearinghealthfoundation.org/diagnosing-tinnitus). 4. Langguth B, de Ridder D, Schlee W, Kleinjung T. [Tinnitus: Clinical Insights in Its Pathophysiology-A Perspective](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38532055/). J Assoc Res Otolaryngol. 2024 Jun;25(3):249-258. doi:10.1007/s10162-024-00939-0 5. Gross J, Knipper M, Mazurek B. [Candidate Key Proteins in Tinnitus-A Bioinformatic Study of Synaptic Transmission in the Cochlear Nucleus](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39062188/). Biomedicines. 2024 Jul 19;12(7):1615. doi:10.3390/biomedicines12071615 6. American Tinnitus Association. [Facts and causes](https://www.ata.org/about-tinnitus/why-are-my-ears-ringing/). 7. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. [Sensorineural hearing loss.](https://www.asha.org/public/hearing/sensorineural-hearing-loss/) 8. New York University Langone Health. [Diagnosing Tinnitus](https://nyulangone.org/conditions/tinnitus/diagnosis). 9. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). [Ototoxic medications (medication effects)](https://www.asha.org/public/hearing/ototoxic-medications/). 10. Xu X, Xie H, Liu Z, Guo T, Zhang Y. [Effects of acupuncture on the outcome of tinnitus: An overview of systematic reviews](https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2022.1061431). Frontiers in Neurology. 2022;13. doi:10.3389/fneur.2022.1061431 11. Hearing Health Foundation. [Protecting your hearing means protecting your mental health](https://hearinghealthfoundation.org/blogs/protecting-your-hearing-means-protecting-your-mental-health). 12. Basso L, Boecking B, Brueggemann P, Pedersen NL, Canlon B, Cederroth CR, et al. [Gender-Specific Risk Factors and Comorbidities of Bothersome Tinnitus](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7539146/). Front Neurosci. 2020 Sep 23;14:706. doi:10.3389/fnins.2020.00706 13. Bhatt, Ishan Sunilkumar. [Prevalence of and risk factors for tinnitus and tinnitus-related handicap in a college-aged population](https://doi.org/10.1097/AUD.0000000000000503). Ear and Hearing. 2018;39(3):517-526 doi:10.1097/AUD.0000000000000503 14. American Tinnitus Association. [Measuring Tinnitus](https://www.ata.org/about-tinnitus/why-are-my-ears-ringing/measuring-tinnitus/). 15. American Tinnitus Association. [Tinnitus patient navigator](https://ata.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Spring-2018-25.pdf). ![Anna Zernone Giorgi]() ![Anna Zernone Giorgi](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/HvvrHn0MKKanQVLF_EDPgcjkK4I=/144x144/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/IMG_09172-9ca0040fa5e74df0b5aac42d8125d477.jpeg) By [Anna Giorgi](https://www.verywellhealth.com/anna-giorgi-5217247) Giorgi is a freelance writer with more than 25 years of experience writing health and wellness-related content. [See Our Editorial Process](https://www.verywellhealth.com/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) [Meet Our Medical Expert Board](https://www.verywellhealth.com/meet-our-medical-expert-board-11762003) Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback\! What is your feedback? 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Readable Markdown	### Key Takeaways - Ringing in the ears can be caused by hearing loss, earwax buildup, medications, diabetes, head injuries, and ear conditions. - The main types of tinnitus are subjective, which only you can hear, and objective, which your healthcare provider may hear during an exam. - Tinnitus can cause psychological effects like anxiety, depression, and problems with sleep, memory, and concentration. Ringing in the ears, also called tinnitus, is not caused by an external sound. It can sound like ringing, but also a buzz, hum, whistle, or other sounds that no one else can hear, except in rare cases by a healthcare provider. The ringing can happen after short-term exposure to power tools or fireworks, for example, but it's a concern if it doesn't resolve. Ringing in the ears often occurs as a result of another health condition. Common causes include [hearing loss](https://www.verywellhealth.com/hearing-loss-and-deafness-4014710), [earwax](https://www.verywellhealth.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-ear-wax-1192043) buildup, medications, diabetes, [head injuries](https://www.verywellhealth.com/signs-and-symptoms-to-look-for-after-head-trauma-1720031), and certain ear conditions. Treatment for ringing in the ears depends on the cause. Talk with your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of tinnitus. Peter Dazeley / Getty Images Ringing in ears affects people differently. It may be faint or loud. The pitch of the sound can also vary. It can be erratic or, at times, seem to keep pace with your heartbeat. Types of sound can include: - Buzzing - Roaring - Whistling - Humming - [Clicking](https://www.verywellhealth.com/crackling-in-ear-7498027) - Hissing - Squealing Some people may hear a whoosh, whistle, or buzz that happens all the time. Others may experience intermittent sounds, or hear them when they move their head a certain way. It also can be high-pitched or low, or even linked to sounds caused by ear wax, hairs, or bone structure changes. ### Types of Ringing in the Ears People who have ear ringing usually experience one of the following types of the condition: - Subjective tinnitus is linked to a sound that doesn't exist externally. Only you can hear it. It is often caused by nerve damage or a problem with the ear. - Objective tinnitus is linked to a sound that originates inside or near your ear. Your healthcare provider may be able to hear the sound during an exam. ### Other Effects In addition to physical symptoms, some people may experience psychological effects from ringing in the ears. These can cause distress and significantly impact quality of life: - [Anxiety](https://www.verywellhealth.com/severe-anxiety-5200310) - [Depression](https://www.verywellhealth.com/clinical-depression-7643137) - [Disrupted sleep](https://www.verywellhealth.com/sleep-disorders-4014648) - Memory problems - Concentration problems Some studies have identified shared pathways in the brain for both tinnitus and stress-related disorders. The findings suggest that more research is needed to understand how tinnitus and mental health can affect each other, or which might influence the other. ## Causes Ringing in the ears is caused by a disorder in the auditory system. This can involve the ear, the [cochlear nerve](https://www.verywellhealth.com/cochlear-nerve-anatomy-5088621) that connects the brain and the inner ear, and neurochemicals and areas of the brain key to processing sound. The causes can range from simple to complex. For some people, there isn't an obvious reason for the sound they hear. Common causes of ringing in the ears include the following: ### Hearing Loss Ringing in the ears is often linked to sensorineural (inner ear) hearing loss. This type of damage results from harm to the inner ear or the nerve pathways that connect the inner ear to the brain. This problem often occurs as the result of noise-induced hearing loss, either from one incident or over time, such as work-related exposure. Ringing in the ears can also result from age-related hearing loss. This normal deterioration of hearing usually starts around age 60 and affects both ears. It often begins with the loss of high-frequency sounds, such as a whistle or squeal. ### Outer Ear Canal Obstruction Outer ear canal obstruction is often caused by an [earwax blockage](https://www.verywellhealth.com/all-about-ear-wax-blockage-1192040). When earwax builds up, it can block the ear canal and cause ringing in the ear. Sources of middle ear obstruction can include: - [Sinus congestion](https://www.verywellhealth.com/nasal-congestion-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-5499061) - [Middle ear infection](https://www.verywellhealth.com/ear-infection-symptoms-7498309) - Dirt or foreign objects - Loose hair in the ear canal - Abnormal bone growth in the ear (otosclerosis) ### Health Conditions Ringing in the ears is often linked to certain health conditions. These can include: - Ear infections - [Meniere’s disease](https://www.verywellhealth.com/causes-of-vertigo-1298945) - [Diabetes](https://www.verywellhealth.com/diabetes-8431797) - Head injuries - Brain tumors - [Multiple sclerosis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/multiple-sclerosis-overview-4581925) - Thyroid disorders - [Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-tmj-disorder-1192014) Pulsatile tinnitus causes a rhythmic type of ringing that may be associated with a [blood vessel](https://www.verywellhealth.com/vascular-disease-5095545) disorder, such as narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis) or high blood pressure affecting the cranium (skull). Tell your healthcare provider if your tinnitus pulsates. ### Medications Ringing in the ears can occur as a side effect of more than 200 [medications](https://www.verywellhealth.com/medications-that-can-cause-tinnitus-8743066). These medications are referred to as [ototoxic](https://www.verywellhealth.com/auditory-processing-disorder-in-adults-1048289). In many cases, the problem disappears when the medication is stopped. These medications include: - [Salicylate](https://www.verywellhealth.com/safer-alternatives-to-nsaids-5095751) pain relievers (aspirin among them) - [Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)](https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-anti-inflammatory-medication-2548734), such as Advil and Motrin (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen) - Certain antibiotics - Anti-cancer drugs - Anti-malaria drugs - Antidepressants ## Treatment Treatment for ringing in the ears depends on the source of the problem and how it affects you. Temporary ringing can resolve without treatment. If your tinnitus is linked to a health problem, that issue is treated first. If the ringing remains, the treatment goal is to reduce it and help you live with it. Depending on your age, medical history, current condition and medications, you may benefit from one or more of these treatments: - [Hearing aids](https://www.verywellhealth.com/hearing-aids-4014073) to correct hearing loss and allow your brain to hear the external sounds above the ringing - [Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)](https://www.verywellhealth.com/dialectical-behavior-therapy-5212359)to help you manage symptoms and learn how to lessen the impact ringing in ears may have on your quality of life - Wearable or tabletop sound generators to mask the tinnitus with a soft, pleasant sound, such as white noise or waves crashing - Acoustic neural stimulation, a technique that uses a device to stimulate change in the neural circuits in the brain to desensitize you from the sound - Cochlear implants to bring in outside sounds to mask the ringing - [Antidepressants](https://www.verywellhealth.com/anxiety-and-depression-8547945) and antianxiety medications to help improve your mood and sleep patterns Some people don't achieve the results they desire with traditional treatments and may want to try an alternative approach, such as [acupuncture](https://www.verywellhealth.com/acupuncture-health-uses-88407) and [biofeedback](https://www.verywellhealth.com/biofeedback-therapy-5211371). These treatments may lack evidence of success or they may provide relief for some people. Check with your healthcare provider before trying common [natural remedies for ringing in ears](https://www.verywellhealth.com/natural-remedies-for-tinnitus-89317). ## Complications and Risk Factors Ringing in the ears often occurs as the result of an underlying condition. The symptom doesn't cause harm on its own but can impact your quality of life and emotional well-being. Ringing in the ears is associated with mental health problems that include: - Moderate to severe depression - Anxiety - [Schizophrenia](https://www.verywellmind.com/schizophrenia-4157221) - Post-traumatic stress disorder - Cognitive decline and [dementia](https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-dementia-5184552) in older adults The following factors can increase your risk of developing ringing in the ears: - High noise exposure without ear protection - Age - High sound level tolerance - Recurring ear infections - Hearing loss - [Smoking](https://www.verywellmind.com/a-day-in-the-life-of-an-ex-smoker-two-weeks-2825293) Be sure to protect your ears when you're around loud noises. Sources of hearing damage can include rock concerts, power tools, and fireworks. ## Diagnosis If you have ringing in your ears, a healthcare provider (such as an audiologist, or hearing specialist) will likely start with a general physical exam and hearing exam to diagnose your condition. Depending on the results of these preliminary exams, your provider may advise the following tests: - Audiography - Speech discrimination testing - Tympanometry - [Audiogram](https://www.verywellhealth.com/low-frequency-hearing-loss-1048828) - Pitch masking - Minimum masking level - Residual inhibition - [Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-an-mri-and-what-does-it-do-3157069) - [Computed tomography (CT)](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-a-cat-scan-189603) ## When to See a Healthcare Provider Contact your healthcare provider if you have ringing in your ears that continues longer than a week. Seek evaluation for any type of sound that interferes with your sleep and/or concentration. In some cases, tinnitus is associated with the risk of [mental health problems](https://www.verywellhealth.com/mental-illness-5113353). Report feelings of depression or anxiety to your healthcare provider as soon as you recognize them. 15 Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https://www.verywellhealth.com/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. 1. American Academy of Family Physicians. [Tinnitus](https://familydoctor.org/condition/tinnitus/). 2. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. [Tinnitus](https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus). 3. Hearing Health Foundation. [Diagnosing tinnitus](https://hearinghealthfoundation.org/diagnosing-tinnitus). 4. Langguth B, de Ridder D, Schlee W, Kleinjung T. [Tinnitus: Clinical Insights in Its Pathophysiology-A Perspective](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38532055/). J Assoc Res Otolaryngol. 2024 Jun;25(3):249-258. doi:10.1007/s10162-024-00939-0 5. Gross J, Knipper M, Mazurek B. [Candidate Key Proteins in Tinnitus-A Bioinformatic Study of Synaptic Transmission in the Cochlear Nucleus](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39062188/). Biomedicines. 2024 Jul 19;12(7):1615. doi:10.3390/biomedicines12071615 6. American Tinnitus Association. [Facts and causes](https://www.ata.org/about-tinnitus/why-are-my-ears-ringing/). 7. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. [Sensorineural hearing loss.](https://www.asha.org/public/hearing/sensorineural-hearing-loss/) 8. New York University Langone Health. [Diagnosing Tinnitus](https://nyulangone.org/conditions/tinnitus/diagnosis). 9. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). [Ototoxic medications (medication effects)](https://www.asha.org/public/hearing/ototoxic-medications/). 10. Xu X, Xie H, Liu Z, Guo T, Zhang Y. [Effects of acupuncture on the outcome of tinnitus: An overview of systematic reviews](https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2022.1061431). Frontiers in Neurology. 2022;13. doi:10.3389/fneur.2022.1061431 11. Hearing Health Foundation. [Protecting your hearing means protecting your mental health](https://hearinghealthfoundation.org/blogs/protecting-your-hearing-means-protecting-your-mental-health). 12. Basso L, Boecking B, Brueggemann P, Pedersen NL, Canlon B, Cederroth CR, et al. [Gender-Specific Risk Factors and Comorbidities of Bothersome Tinnitus](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7539146/). Front Neurosci. 2020 Sep 23;14:706. doi:10.3389/fnins.2020.00706 13. Bhatt, Ishan Sunilkumar. [Prevalence of and risk factors for tinnitus and tinnitus-related handicap in a college-aged population](https://doi.org/10.1097/AUD.0000000000000503). Ear and Hearing. 2018;39(3):517-526 doi:10.1097/AUD.0000000000000503 14. American Tinnitus Association. [Measuring Tinnitus](https://www.ata.org/about-tinnitus/why-are-my-ears-ringing/measuring-tinnitus/). 15. American Tinnitus Association. [Tinnitus patient navigator](https://ata.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Spring-2018-25.pdf). ![Anna Zernone Giorgi](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/HvvrHn0MKKanQVLF_EDPgcjkK4I=/144x144/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/IMG_09172-9ca0040fa5e74df0b5aac42d8125d477.jpeg) By [Anna Giorgi](https://www.verywellhealth.com/anna-giorgi-5217247) Giorgi is a freelance writer with more than 25 years of experience writing health and wellness-related content. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback\! What is your feedback?
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