Tinnitus is a hearing problem that can cause ringing, buzzing, hissing, chirping, whistling, or other sounds in one or both ears, or in the head. It is a symptom of an underlying condition, rather than a disease itself. The causes of tinnitus are not fully understood, but most people who have it have some degree of hearing loss. Some of the underlying conditions that can cause tinnitus include:

• Age-related hearing loss
• Exposure to loud noises
• Ear injury
• Ear infection or ear canal blockage
• Menieres disease
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
• Acoustic neuroma or other head and neck tumors
• High blood pressure, atherosclerosis, or malformations in blood vessels
• Chronic conditions such as diabetes, migraines, thyroid disorders, anemia, and certain autoimmune disorders
• Neurological diseases, including multiple sclerosis

In rare cases, tinnitus can be a sign of a serious medical problem such as a tumor or aneurysm. If you experience tinnitus, it is important to see a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.