Tinnitus is commonly known as “ringing in the ears.” However, people with tinnitus perceive a wide variety of other sounds with no external source, from hissing and clicking to roaring and screeching.
While it’s often associated with hearing loss, approximately 200 other conditions can generate tinnitus as a symptom. For some individuals, there is no obvious cause.
Many people lead normal lives with milder forms of tinnitus. But even moderate tinnitus can result in fatigue, anxiety, mood swings, insomnia, poor concentration, and other negative consequences. Severe tinnitus can lead to social isolation, depression, and an inability to work.
In most cases, there is no cure for tinnitus. However, it’s can often be managed through hearing aids, counseling, masking devices, or other strategies.
