What’s That Noise?

Do you hear a ringing, hissing, clicking, or chirping sound in your ears? If so, you’re not alone. The condition is called tinnitus, and for many people it can be a distracting problem. In severe cases, the noise can be so loud that sufferers cannot lead normal lives.

Experts don’t know exactly what causes the ringing, which can be constant or intermittent. But some likely sources include:

• hearing loss
• excessive earwax
• medications
• ear or sinus infections
• allergies
• cardiovascular disease
• other health problems, such as tumors or jaw misalignment.

If you suffer from tinnitus, see your doctor. There is no cure for the condition. But identifying and treating the underlying cause of the problem may bring relief to some. In addition, these steps help lessen the severity of tinnitus:

• Turn on low-level background noise, such as gentle music, to make the ringing seem softer.
• Take steps to control your blood pressure.
• Avoid stimulants, such as caffeine and nicotine.
• Consider wearing hearing aids, which can help mask the ringing.