Tinnitus is noise heard in the ear unrelated to any outside stimuli. People with tinnitus most often describe it as having a ringing in the ears. Some people describe hearing clicking, chirping, whistling, roaring, buzzing or hissing. Tinnitus can affect one or both ears, and may be constant or intermittent.

Tinnitus is very common especially in people over age 40. The severity varies. To some, tinnitus is nothing more than an annoyance. To others, tinnitus can be so severe that it impacts negatively on all aspects of life.

Tinnitus is a symptom and not a disease. An evaluation by a physician is necessary to determine the exact cause and treatment. In many cases, special tests are necessary. Commonly ordered tests are MRI or CT scans of the head and comprehensive hearing evaluations. Sometimes, the cause is not found.

There is a long list of problems that can cause tinnitus or can make its symptoms worse. These include: wax buildup or foreign objects in the ear; ear or sinus infections; injury to the ear, neck or head; abnormal functioning of the Eustachian tube; Menière's disease (an inner ear disorder that causes tinnitus, hearing loss and dizziness); otosclerosis (abnormal growth of bone that surrounds the middle and inner ear); hearing loss caused by loud noise or aging; cardiovascular disease; certain tumors and neurological disorders; medicines such as aspirin and some antibiotics; stress and anxiety; cigarette smoking; jaw misalignment; and thyroid disorders.

The treatment of tinnitus can be as variable as the list of possible causes. Dozens of drug and nondrug treatments have been used with varying success. In most cases, a combination of treatments can offer some relief of symptoms.

People with tinnitus should avoid stress, fatigue and noisy environments, as well as wearing ear plugs or ear muffs when exposed to loud noises. Alcohol, nicotine, caffeine and certain foods can sometimes make tinnitus worse, as can some medicines, vitamins and natural remedies. Discuss all prescription and non-prescription drugs you are taking with your doctor.

I also would recommend consulting with a physician or center that specializes in the treatment of tinnitus. For more information, visit the Web site of the American Tinnitus Association at www.ata.org

By NJ.com
http://www.nj.com/living/ledger/index.ssf?/base/living-0/113506008519180.xml&coll=1