Tinnitus is a constant, chronic, recurring, and/or persistent sound in the head or ears.

The four main tinnitus causes:

1.    Noise – Cochlear damage from exposure to noise is one of the predominant and most frequent tinnitus causes. From loud music to industrial machines to heavy traffic to household appliances, a frequent, recurring, and, above all, enduring exposure to noise is one of the most common tinnitus causes.

2.    Trauma or Stress – Cochlear damage can also be a negative result of certain efforts to remove ear wax (like ear candling), certain sporting activities (like scuba diving), and by sports injuries (like a blow to the head). Additionally, dental surgery or surgeries performed on the ears, nasal passages, or other parts of the head could be other potential tinnitus causes. As can everyday, extreme, and/or unresolved stress.

3.    Allergies or Sinus Trouble – Tinnitus can also be caused by severe congestion or middle ear infection. Often in these cases a doctor’s visit is a wise move, where antibiotics or some other medication to treat the infection will likely be prescribed.

4.    Meniere’s Disease – A disorder involving inner ear fluid flow, the causes of this condition are unknown, though it is thought most likely to be due to an abnormality in the regulating of one’s inner ear. In 80-90% of cases, only one ear is affected. Symptoms range from mildly annoying to disabling. In addition to tinnitus, other symptoms of Meniere’s Disease are vertigo, hearing loss, and a feeling of “fullness” in the ears.