Tinnitus

What is it?

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is a hearing disorder in which sizzling, whistling, buzzing or beeping sounds can be heard in one or both ears, but for which no external source of sound can be found. The sounds heard may vary from person to person. Often tinnitus is only heard when it is very quiet, such as at bedtime. But sometimes tinnitus is much louder and is a real nuisance in everyday life.

Possible causes

Most people have experienced short periods of tinnitus during their lives. If one’s hearing is exposed to loud noises, such as a music concert, one can temporarily experience some tinnitus.

Many people with tinnitus are convinced, as a result of very one-sided information, that there is irreparable damage to the hair cells in their cochlea. They believe that nothing can be done about tinnitus and many feel insecure and afraid that the tinnitus will worsen.

Usually, there are other factors that maintain and amplify the tinnitus. Sometimes these are middle ear problems, often muscle tension, increased alertness and anxiety also play a role.

It is important to look for the right factors that cause, maintain or potentiate tinnitus in a specific patient. There are patients for whom tinnitus cannot be changed, and there are patients for whom tinnitus can be easily treated. Tinnitus remains after treatment for most patients, but it becomes far less disruptive.

Read all about the diagnosis and treatments for tinnitus.

Latest publication date: 15/12/2023
Supervising author: Dr Vermeiren Judith