Approximately one in every 10 Americans will experience some form of tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, which occurs when you perceive sounds that originate in your head. The mechanisms that produce tinnitus are not completely understood. Typically, causes of hearing loss can also cause tinnitus, including noise exposure, aging, trauma and medications.

People react very differently to their tinnitus. Some find it a little bothersome, but largely ignore it. Others are distressed by their tinnitus and have difficulty concentrating and getting to sleep.

Tinnitus may occur at any age and is frequently associated with sensorineural hearing loss. Many people report that their tinnitus sounds like ringing, crickets, or buzzing, but tinnitus can also sound like many different things. Some tinnitus patients find moderately intense sounds very uncomfortable. This is called hyperacusis. When present, hyperacusis should be treated with the tinnitus.            

Recent onset of tinnitus may be related to changes in the auditory system that should be evaluated. Longstanding tinnitus is problematic for many persons and may warrant treatment to reduce its impact on daily life. It often can affect emotional well-being, hearing, sleep and concentration.