Understanding Tinnitus
Do You Hear That?
That ringing, buzzing, hissing, or whooshing that no one else seems to hear has a name. Here is what it means, what causes it, and what you can do about it.
You Are Not Alone
That Ringing or Buzzing in Your Ears
If you have ever noticed a ringing, buzzing, hissing, or whooshing sound that no one else seems to hear, you are not alone. That phantom noise has a name, tinnitus.
For some, it is a minor annoyance that comes and goes. For others, it is a constant presence that disrupts sleep, concentration, and quality of life.
You Are Not Alone
People Worldwide Live With Some Form of Tinnitus
Tinnitus affects an estimated 15% to 20% of people worldwide. If you are experiencing it, you are among hundreds of millions of others.
A Symptom, Not a Condition
What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is not a condition in itself. It is a symptom. It is your auditory system signaling that something may be worth paying attention to.
The sounds people describe vary widely. It can affect one ear or both, and it can be intermittent or constant.
The Many Sounds of Tinnitus
What Does Tinnitus Sound Like?
People describe the sound of tinnitus in many different ways. Any of these may be familiar to you:
High Pitched Ring
Low Hum
Clicking
Pulsing With Your Heart
Where It Comes From
Common Causes of Tinnitus
The causes are just as varied as the sounds. In many cases, a combination of factors is at play.
Prolonged Loud Noise Exposure
One of the most common triggers. Concerts, worksites, firearms, and loud hobbies all contribute.
Age Related Hearing Changes
Natural degeneration of the auditory nerve over time often triggers tinnitus perception.
Earwax Buildup
A surprisingly common and often reversible cause of new tinnitus.
Certain Medications
Some prescription drugs are known to cause or worsen tinnitus as a side effect.
Stress and Jaw Problems
Stress can amplify tinnitus, and TMJ or other jaw issues can create or worsen it.
Cardiovascular Issues
Underlying heart and circulation problems can present as pulsing tinnitus.
Do Not Just Live With It
Why It Is Worth Taking Seriously
It is tempting to dismiss tinnitus as something you just have to live with, and many people do for years before seeking help. But the truth is, early awareness and the right support can make a meaningful difference.
Tinnitus can be managed. Many people find significant relief.
The Reality
Many people find significant relief through hearing devices, sound therapy, lifestyle changes, or cognitive techniques that help retrain how the brain processes the sound.
What Actually Helps
Ways People Find Relief
Modern tinnitus treatment goes far beyond just living with it. Here are the main options.
Hearing Devices
Modern devices that stimulate the auditory nerve, retraining the brain and reducing tinnitus perception.
Sound Therapy
Targeted acoustic therapy that helps your brain reprioritize what it pays attention to.
Lifestyle Changes
Managing stress, sleep, diet, and noise exposure to reduce triggers and flare ups.
Cognitive Techniques
Retraining how your brain processes and responds to tinnitus sounds over time.
Where Are You on the Spectrum?
Everyone’s Experience Is Different
Tinnitus exists on a spectrum. Some people barely notice theirs. Others find it intrudes on conversations, makes it hard to fall asleep, or affects their mood and concentration throughout the day. Knowing how your tinnitus is affecting your life is the key to figuring out the right next step.
Two Minute Self Check
So, How Much Is Tinnitus Affecting You?
This short quiz is designed to help you understand the impact your tinnitus may be having on your day to day life. It takes just a couple of minutes, and your results will give you a clearer picture of where you stand and what, if anything, you might want to do about it.
Take the quiz below to find out your tinnitus level.
Real Story, Real Results
Silence the Ringing
Randy Wohlers, BC HIS, Owner at Family Hearing Center, shares his 50 year journey with tinnitus. Dr. Keith N. Darrow, Ph.D., Harvard Medical and M.I.T. trained Neuroscientist, Certified Dementia Practitioner, and Clinical Audiologist explains why gimmicks fail and why this proven treatment works.

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The complete guide to understanding and treating tinnitus, written by our team of experts.
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