Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is usually caused by an underlying condition. The most common cause of tinnitus is damage to the hair cells in the cochlea, which help transform sound waves into nerve signals. If these hairs are bent or broken, they can "leak" random electrical impulses to the brain, causing tinnitus. Other causes of tinnitus include:
- Age-related hearing loss
- Exposure to loud noises or explosions
- Ototoxic medications
- Ear infection or ear canal blockage
- Menieres disease
- Eustachian tube dysfunction
- Ear bone changes
- Muscle spasms in the inner ear
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
- Head or neck injuries
- Jaw joint problems
- Tumor-related disorders
- Blood vessel problems
- Chronic conditions
In rare cases, tinnitus can be a sign of a serious problem such as a tumor or aneurysm. If you are experiencing tinnitus, it is important to see a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
