Tinnitus: What You Should Know

Tinnitus is the perception of noise without an external source. It often occurs as a ringing in the ears, but has also been reported as buzzing, hissing, whistling and clicking.

Tinnitus is often linked to hearing loss. To help prevent hearing loss and thus tinnitus, avoid exposure to loud noises and if that isn’t possible use hearing protection such as ear plugs.

Tinnitus has been reported in about 15% of the world’s population, mostly with people that are over 40 years old.

Musicians are at a higher risk of tinnitus because of the hearing loss risks. In one study 51% of musicians reported experiencing tinnitus.

Tinnitus is the number one disability reported for veterans. This is easy to understand given the link to hearing loss and the exposure to gunshots, explosions and airplanes that can come with the job.

Treatment

It’s important to note that there isn’t currently a known cure for tinnitus. However, people have reported there are treatments that have provided relief.

These treatments for tinnitus include supplements, exercise, reducing stress, antidepressant medications, sound masking devices and the use of hearing aids.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has released an ebook on managing tinnitus that you can download here. Veterans should visit their local VA hospital for tinnitus treatment.

Additional Reading On Tinnitus