Exposure to loud sounds is one of the most frequently cited causes of tinnitus, especially among younger adults. Loud noise damages the delicate hair cells in the inner ear — cells that do not regenerate once destroyed.

Common noise sources include concerts, headphones at high volume, power tools, firearms, motorsports, and industrial machinery. Damage can result from a single extremely loud event (like an explosion) or from repeated exposure over months or years.

The single most common factor associated with tinnitus is hearing loss. Published research indicates that up to 90% of people with tinnitus also have some degree of hearing loss — often so gradual they may not have noticed it.

As we age, the structures of the inner ear naturally break down. When the auditory pathways are damaged, the brain may attempt to compensate for missing sound signals by creating its own internal noise. This is the most common cause of tinnitus in adults over 50.

Often overlooked, earwax buildup can block the ear canal, affecting pressure and sound transmission. This can trigger or worsen tinnitus in some people. The good news: this is one of the most easily addressable causes.

Safe professional removal of impacted earwax frequently resolves the associated tinnitus. Never attempt to remove earwax with cotton swabs or other objects — this can push wax deeper or damage the ear canal.

Stress does not typically cause tinnitus directly, but it is one of the most powerful aggravating factors. Published research consistently shows that stress amplifies tinnitus perception by increasing neural activity and keeping the nervous system in a heightened state.

This creates a well-documented feedback loop: tinnitus causes anxiety, anxiety increases stress hormones, and stress hormones make tinnitus seem louder. Breaking this cycle through stress management is a core part of most clinical treatment approaches.

Ear infections, sinus pressure, and congestion from colds or flu can create pressure in the middle or inner ear, leading to temporary tinnitus. This type of tinnitus often resolves once the infection or congestion clears.

If tinnitus persists after an infection has resolved, it may warrant further evaluation by a healthcare provider.

Trauma to the head or neck can damage nerves, blood vessels, or hearing structures, potentially triggering tinnitus. Published research notes that this includes concussions, whiplash, and acoustic trauma from sudden loud blasts.

Additionally, Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders — dysfunction in the jaw joint located close to the ears — can cause or worsen tinnitus due to shared nerve connections with the middle ear.

High blood pressure, narrowed blood vessels, and malformed vessels near the ear can produce pulsatile tinnitus — a rhythmic sound that beats in sync with your heartbeat. Published research suggests hypertension nearly doubles the risk of tinnitus.

This inner ear disorder involves episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, ear fullness, and tinnitus. It is related to abnormal fluid pressure in the inner ear. Tinnitus from Meniere's disease often fluctuates in intensity.

Published research also associates tinnitus with thyroid disorders, diabetes, anemia, autoimmune conditions, and — rarely — benign tumors on the auditory nerve (acoustic neuroma). These causes are less common but worth being aware of, as addressing the underlying condition may improve tinnitus symptoms.