Tinnitus (from Latin "ringing") is perception of sound in the ears, when no external sound is present. The sound perceived is not necessarily a "ring".

• Noise induced hearing loss, most commonly
• Neurological damage (MS)
• Ear infection
• Oxidative stress
• Emotional stress
• Foreign objects in the ear
• Nasal allergies that prevent (or induce) fuid drain
• Earwax build up
• Exposure to loud sounds
• Withdrawal from benzodiazepines
• Congenital hearing loss
• Sensorineural hearing loss (i.e. cause is in vestibulocochlear nerve CN8)
• Side effect of certain medications (ototoxic tinnitus)

• If there is an underlying cause, Tx may lead to improvements
• Talk therapy
• No effective medications

• Common, affecting 13% of people
• It is tolerated well, with it being a significant problem in only 1.5% of people