- Tinnitus is hearing a sound, such as ringing, when no outside sound is present.
- Loud noise is a common cause, so protect your ears at shows and in the studio.
- See a doctor if it starts suddenly, affects one ear, comes with hearing loss or dizziness, or worries you.
The short answer
Tinnitus is the sense of hearing a sound that has no outside source. People describe ringing, buzzing, hissing or humming, in one ear or both. It is common, and for many people it is mild or temporary. After a loud concert, for example, ringing may last hours or days. Persistent tinnitus can be annoying and tiring, but there are ways to cope and to protect your hearing.
Common causes
- Exposure to loud noise, such as concerts, headphones turned up high, machinery and studios.
- Earwax blocking the ear canal.
- Ear infections or fluid in the ear.
- Age-related hearing loss.
- Some medicines, which a doctor or pharmacist can review.
- Jaw or neck problems, stress and tiredness, which can make it seem louder.
Often the cause is not found, and that is common.
Why musicians and music lovers should care
Loud sound can damage the tiny hair cells in the inner ear, and that damage does not heal. Tinnitus can be an early warning that your ears have been exposed to too much noise. Producers, performers, DJs and fans can all be at risk. Read hearing protection for musicians and producers and how to choose headphones for protection and choosing equipment.
Ways to cope
- Add gentle background sound, such as a fan, soft music or nature sounds, especially at night. Silence can make tinnitus feel louder.
- Protect your ears from further loud noise.
- Relax: stress and worry can make tinnitus more noticeable. See managing stress and sleep and creative work.
- Move your body and keep a healthy routine. See walking and simple exercise.
- Talk to someone. Counselling and support groups can help you live well with it.
- Avoid very quiet environments when you want to relax.
Protect your ears at shows and in the studio
- Wear earplugs made for music, which lower the volume without muffling the sound.
- Take breaks from loud places, and stand away from speakers.
- Keep headphone volume moderate, and use noise cancelling in noisy places.
- Give your ears time to rest after loud events.
- Get a hearing check if you work around noise.
When to see a doctor
- The tinnitus started suddenly, especially with hearing loss. This needs urgent attention.
- It affects only one ear.
- You hear a pulsing sound that matches your heartbeat.
- You have dizziness, ear pain, discharge or weakness in the face.
- It followed a head injury or loud blast.
- It causes distress, poor sleep or low mood, or lasts more than a week or two.
A doctor can check for earwax, infection and other causes, arrange a hearing test and refer you to a specialist if needed. Do not put objects into your ear to try to remove wax.
Treatment options
There is no single cure for most persistent tinnitus, but many people improve with sound therapy, counselling, hearing aids when there is hearing loss and treating any underlying cause. A health professional can explain what suits you. Avoid products that claim a miracle cure.
Quick checklist
- Protect your ears from loud sound
- Use gentle background sound if the ringing bothers you
- Manage stress and sleep
- Do not clean the ear canal with objects
- See a doctor for sudden, one-sided or worrying symptoms
- Get hearing checks if you work with sound
Key points to remember
Tinnitus is common, but you should not ignore it. This guide is general information and not medical advice. If you are worried about your hearing, see a doctor.
