Tinnitus is a condition where a person hears sounds such as ringing, buzzing, or whistling in their ears, even when there is no external sound present. Tinnitus in one ear only can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Hearing loss: This is the most common cause of tinnitus. When the tiny hair cells in the inner ear are damaged or broken, they can "leak" random electrical impulses to the brain, causing tinnitus. This can happen due to age-related hearing loss, exposure to loud sounds, or other factors.

• Ear infection or ear canal blockage: A blockage in the ear canal can change the pressure in the ear, causing tinnitus.

• Head or neck injuries: Trauma to the head or neck can affect the inner ear, hearing nerves, or brain function linked to hearing, causing tinnitus in only one ear.

• Medications: Certain medications may cause or worsen tinnitus.

• Earwax: A build-up of excess earwax can cause a build-up of pressure on the inner ear, leading to tinnitus in one ear only. This can be easily removed by a doctor or audiologist.

Other potential causes of ringing in one or both ears include neck or head injuries, problems in the jaw, high blood pressure, chronic conditions such as diabetes, tumors in the head, neck, or brain, and certain autoimmune disorders.

If a person experiences unilateral tinnitus along with neurologic symptoms, such as hearing loss and vertigo, it may be a cause for concern, and they should contact a doctor. It is important to seek medical assessment to find the exact cause of the condition and determine the best way to treat it.