What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external source exists. It can sound like ringing, buzzing, or hissing — constant or intermittent.
Why It Happens
Tinnitus develops when the brain attempts to compensate for reduced sound input or damage to the auditory system. Common causes include:
- Noise exposure – concerts, headphones, power tools, or occupational noise
- Age-related hearing change – natural decline in hair cell function
- Stress and fatigue – heightens nervous system sensitivity
- Ear conditions or jaw tension – TMJ disorders, earwax blockage, or middle ear problems
In most cases, the cause can't be fully reversed, but the perception can be managed through sound therapy, stress reduction, and environmental modifications.
The Brain Connection
Tinnitus starts in the ear but is maintained by the brain's attention and emotion centers. When hearing input decreases, the brain increases its internal gain—like turning up the volume on a radio with weak signal. This creates the phantom sound.
Why Sound Therapy Works
Sound therapy provides the brain with actual external sound to process, reducing the contrast between tinnitus and silence. This helps the brain re-learn to filter out the internal noise as unimportant background information.
Managing It Day by Day
While there's no universal cure, these strategies help most people reduce the impact of tinnitus:
- Use gentle sound in quiet rooms (fans, nature sounds, or dedicated apps)
- Maintain consistent sleep patterns—fatigue worsens perception
- Reduce stress through breathing exercises, walking, or other calming activities
- Limit caffeine and alcohol, especially in the evening
- Take short breaks in noisy settings to rest your auditory system
- Avoid complete silence whenever possible