Tinnitus is when you hear noise or ringing in your ears or head when no physical sound is present. It's usually a symptom of an issue somewhere in your auditory system.
Common sounds associated with tinnitus include:
- Ringing
- Buzzing
- Whistling
- Roaring
- Humming
Causes can include:
- Hearing loss
- Earwax blockage
- Exposure to loud noise
- Ear infections or inflammation
- Problems with the inner ear
- Some medicines
- Head injuries
Preventing tinnitus
Try these simple tips to look after your ears and lower your chances of developing tinnitus.
- Don't stand near the speakers when listening to live music.
- If you use headphones, keep the volume as low as you can. Noise-cancelling models can help because you won't need to turn the sound up as much.
- Take regular listening breaks, such as 5 minutes every hour, to give your ears a rest.
- If you're in a noisy environment, regularly step somewhere quieter for a short break.
- Try to reduce your stress levels – tinnitus can sometimes start or feel worse during periods of anxiety or stress.
- If you use earplugs or hearing aids, keep them clean. Also avoid putting anything in your ears (including cotton buds), as this can cause irritation, wax blockage, or infection.
- Use earplugs if you'll be exposed to loud sounds (around 85 decibels or more), especially for long periods.
Different noises and their loudness
- A quiet library: 40 decibels
- Ordinary spoken conversation: 60 decibels
- A food blender: 85 decibels
- A nightclub: 100 decibels
- A live concert: 110 decibels
If you're concerned about tinnitus or your hearing, it's always best to speak with a hearing or medical professional.
Sources
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