cinnitus

Cinnitus is the perception of sound in the absence of an external acoustic stimulus. It is often described as a ringing, buzzing, hissing, clicking, or roaring in the ears. Cinnitus can be intermittent or continuous and vary in loudness. It can affect one or both ears and can be subjective, meaning only the person experiencing it can hear it, or objective, meaning a healthcare professional can also hear it, though this is much rarer.

The causes of tinnitus are diverse and can range from simple earwax buildup to more serious underlying medical conditions. Common causes include exposure to loud noise, age-related hearing loss, ear infections, and certain medications. It can also be associated with conditions such as Meniere's disease, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, head injuries, and acoustic neuroma. Stress, anxiety, and depression can also exacerbate or even trigger tinnitus symptoms.

Diagnosis typically involves a medical history, physical examination, and hearing tests. Depending on the suspected cause, further investigations like imaging scans may be recommended. While there is no universal cure for tinnitus, various management strategies aim to reduce its impact on a person's life. These can include sound therapy to mask the tinnitus, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help cope with the distress, lifestyle adjustments, and treating any underlying medical conditions. Avoiding loud noises and managing stress are often advised.