Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is a symptom of another health problem and not a disease itself. The causes of tinnitus are not always clear, but most people who have it have some degree of hearing loss. Some common causes of tinnitus include:
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Hearing loss: There are tiny, delicate hair cells in your inner ear that move when your ear receives sound waves. This movement triggers electrical signals along the nerve from your ear to your brain. If the hairs inside your inner ear are bent or broken, they can "leak" random electrical impulses to your brain, causing tinnitus.
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Medications: Certain prescription and over-the-counter drugs can trigger ringing or make it louder, including aspirin, diuretics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), quinine-based medication, and certain antibiotics, antidepressants, and cancer drugs.
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Blood pressure issues: High blood pressure and things that raise it in the short term, like stress, alcohol, and caffeine, can cause tinnitus. Hardening of the arteries can also play a role.
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Head or neck injuries: A head/neck injury can damage structures of the ear, the nerve that carries sound signals to the brain, or areas of the brain that process sound, causing tinnitus.
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Earwax blockage: Earwax protects your ear canal by trapping dirt and slowing the growth of bacteria. When too much earwax accumulates, it can become impacted and cause hearing loss or irritation of the eardrum, which can lead to tinnitus.
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Menieres disease: Tinnitus can be a symptom of Menieres disease, an inner ear disorder that can also cause balance problems and hearing loss.
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Jaw joint problems: The joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull is close to the ear. Jaw clenching or tooth grinding can damage surrounding tissue, causing or worsening tinnitus.
Tinnitus can also be a symptom of more serious problems such as a tumor or aneurysm, but this is rare. If you experience tinnitus, it is important to see a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan.
