What is tinnitus?Tinnitus is what is more commonly known as ringing in the ears. The sound can be heard as a quiet ringing in the background to a loud whining or buzzing that can be heard over loud external noises. The condition is most common in men over 40. It is not a disease, but a symptom that has several possible causes. CausesNasal allergies, ear infections, ear wax buildup, and injury from loud noises can cause your ears to ring. This condition is also a known side-effect of taking aspirin and some antibiotics. The most common cause is due to hearing loss resulting from aging.PreventionStay away from repeated exposure to loud noises, such as rock concerts, jet engines, power tools and gunshots. If you can't stay away, wear good ear protection to help block out noise. Also, be careful when using stereo headphones or earbuds. If while you're wearing the earphones, you can't hear other sounds and other people can hear the music clearly, you have the volume up too high.Ringing in the ears has also been known to be caused by aspirin use, nicotine, alcohol, caffeine and obesity. What should I do?If the ringing in your ears is constant, occurs with other symptoms or occurs in only one ear, you may require medical treatment. See your doctor, if this is the case.If the ringing in your ears is mild and comes and goes, then you most likely will not require medical treatment. The following suggestions may help reduce your symptoms:
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