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Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)
Tinnitus is hearing a sound such as ringing, buzzing or humming when there is no external source. It is very common and often harmless, though it can be distressing.
Causes & risk factors
- Age-related or noise-induced hearing loss
- Exposure to loud noise or music
- Ear wax blockage or ear infection
- Certain medicines
- High blood pressure or stress
- Meniere’s disease or other inner-ear problems
Common symptoms
- Ringing, buzzing or hissing in the ears
- Sound in one or both ears
- Muffled hearing
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
- Dizziness in some cases
Tests & diagnosis
- Otoscopy (ear examination)
- Hearing test (audiometry)
- Blood pressure check
- Blood tests for anaemia or thyroid
- MRI in selected cases
Treatment & management
- Treating any underlying cause such as wax or infection
- Sound therapy or background noise to mask the ringing
- Protecting ears from loud noise
- Managing stress and improving sleep
- Hearing aids if there is hearing loss
- Counselling or cognitive therapy for distressing tinnitus
When to see a doctor urgently
- Tinnitus in only one ear
- Ringing with sudden hearing loss or dizziness
- Pulsing tinnitus in time with your heartbeat
- Tinnitus that seriously affects sleep or mood
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about tinnitus (ringing in the ears). It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Will tinnitus go away?
Many people find it settles or becomes less noticeable over time, especially if a treatable cause is found. Some manage it long term with sound therapy.
Can loud music cause tinnitus?
Yes. Loud music and noise can damage the inner ear and trigger tinnitus. Protecting your ears helps prevent it.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.