Tinnitus is commonly defined as persistent noise that emanates from within the body. It is usually only heard by the person it affects. The condition can be either permanent or temporary. Although there are a few treatments for tinnitus, there is no known cure.

Almost 10% of the population are affected by tinnitus. For around one in 100, it is a very serious long-term problem. Most people with permanent tinnitus learn to cope with the problem. For some people, tinnitus can lead to problems such as depression and sleep disorders.

Tinnitus usually manifests as a persistent ringing in one or both ears. It may also take the form of a buzzing or hissing noise. Almost 25% of tinnitus sufferers claim that the noise is a pure musical tone. Sufferers have also stated that the noise can be heard as whistling, or in some cases, a roaring.

Temporary tinnitus is very common among young people who have just attended loud music concerts or nightclubs. The permanent condition is mostly found in older people. However, with noise levels in today’s society on the increase, permanent tinnitus can affect almost anyone.

There are a number of conditions that can cause tinnitus. There may be some damage to the inner ear and the nerves in the ear. In older people, the condition may simply be caused by loss of hearing. When this occurs, the hearing nerves become less sensitive, and irregular impulses are felt in the nerves. The brain turns these impulses into sounds, resulting in tinnitus.

Other causes of tinnitus include head injuries, high blood pressure and an overactive thyroid gland. It may also be caused by reactions to certain medications. In some cases, wax may be blocking the ear and causing the condition.

Although there is no known cure for tinnitus, certain treatments may help. The condition has been linked to stress, and some medications are available to eliminate stress and reduce tinnitus. Listening to relaxing music before sleeping is said to relieve the condition. In older people, a hearing aid is thought to help override tinnitus.

Tinnitus has been known to disappear over time. It may only reappear in times of stress and anxiety. There are also hearing therapists who use cognitive behavioral therapy to treat the condition. For some people, the condition persists for life and no treatment is of any help.