People may experience complaints such as dizziness and vertigo for various reasons. This situation is related to the processing of information from different organs—such as the eyes, inner ear, and musculoskeletal system—in the brain. A malfunction in any one of these systems can disrupt overall balance, leading to equilibrium problems in individuals.

Therefore, these symptoms are generally a sign of an underlying imbalance. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are critical in overcoming the symptoms.

Doctor Audiologist Emel Uğur

Dr. Audiologist Emel Uğur was born in 1982 in Çanakkale. During her 15-year tenure at Istanbul Training and Research Hospital, she primarily worked on Pediatric Audiology (Hearing Loss in Infants and Children), Otological Diseases (Ear Diseases and Hearing Health), and Vestibular System Disorders (Vertigo and Imbalance). In 2015, she joined the Acıbadem Healthcare Group.

About Me

What is Tinnitus (Ear Ringing)?

Ear ringing, known in medical literature as tinnitus, is typically defined as the perception of sounds that are not present in the external environment. Individuals may perceive tinnitus as a high-pitched tone, a buzzing sound, or a crackling noise. These sounds can originate from various factors. It is classified into objective tinnitus and subjective tinnitus. The primary difference between the two types is the perception of the sound’s source. Subjective tinnitus is the most common type, where the sounds are heard only by the patient:

• Whistling sound
• Sound of flowing water
• Sound of wind
• Sound of a bell or chime

Objective tinnitus, on the other hand, is less common and the sounds can be heard externally. This condition is usually due to abnormal movements of blood vessels in the inner ear. Both types of tinnitus can pose various challenges for patients. The continuous perception of these sounds can reduce an individual’s quality of life and lead to psychological disorders, especially:

• Sleep problems
• Attention deficit
• Depression
• Anxiety

What are the Causes of Ear Ringing?

Tinnitus, which is frequently observed in the elderly and middle-aged groups, can be an indicator of various health problems. Hearing loss, ear injuries, or various infections are among the primary causes of tinnitus. However, it can also occur in children. Most patients have the chance to overcome this condition through appropriate treatment methods. Therefore, tinnitus is an important health issue that requires both diagnosis and treatment.

Tinnitus is an ear disorder caused by various factors. The buzzing or ringing sound felt in the ear can be triggered by different external and internal elements. Essentially, the buildup of earwax plays a role in the onset of tinnitus. In addition, prolonged exposure to high sound levels can damage the eardrum and trigger tinnitus. Inflammation and fluid accumulation in the outer ear canal or middle ear can negatively affect the auditory system, initiating tinnitus symptoms. Situations such as a foreign object entering the ear or a perforated eardrum can also lead to similar effects. Here are some common causes of tinnitus:

• Earwax buildup
• Exposure to high noise levels
• Inflammation and fluid accumulation in the outer ear canal and middle ear
• A foreign object in the ear
• Head and neck traumas
• Perforation of the eardrum
• High blood pressure
• Bone growth in the inner and middle ear
• Meniere’s disease caused by excessive pressure in the inner ear
• Age-related hearing loss
• Dysfunction in the jaw joints
• Migraine
• Ototoxic medications
• Vertigo
• Vascular stiffness
• Spinal disorders
• Tumors of the inner ear and brainstem
• Metabolic disorders
• Kidney diseases
• Hormonal imbalances

What are the Factors that Cause Ear Ringing?

Damage to the delicate hair cells located in the inner ear is one of the most common causes of tinnitus. This damage generally increases with age or occurs as a result of exposure to high noise levels. The damage to these hair cells in the inner ear sends incorrect signals to the brain, leading to the perception of ringing. In addition, the buildup of earwax, especially when it blocks the ear canal, can lead to hearing loss and subsequently to tinnitus.

The different causes are as follows:

• Ear infections and blockages: Fluid buildup or infections in the ear canal can cause pressure changes and thus trigger tinnitus. Similarly, middle ear infections can put pressure on the eardrum, leading to a ringing sensation.
• Physical traumas: Impacts to the head and neck area can affect the inner ear structure, auditory nerves, or hearing-related areas in the brain. Such injuries often result in unilateral tinnitus.
• Factors related to the circulatory system can also affect tinnitus. High blood pressure can cause dilation of blood vessels, altering blood flow in the inner ear. This can be perceived as ringing in the ear. Similarly, vascular diseases can have comparable effects.

Medications that can trigger ear ringing include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Certain antibiotics
• Cancer treatment drugs
• Diuretics
• Antimalarial drugs
• Antidepressants

As the dosage of these medications increases, the severity of tinnitus may also increase.

Among the less common but important causes that can trigger tinnitus are:

• Meniere’s disease: This inner ear disorder can manifest initially as ear ringing.
• Eustachian tube dysfunction: Changes in air pressure can cause the eardrum to collapse and produce a ringing sound due to improper functioning of this tube.
• Otosclerosis: The hardening of the bones in the middle ear can affect hearing and result in tinnitus.
• Muscle spasms in the middle ear
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: Issues related to the jaw and teeth can cause ear ringing.
• Acoustic neuroma and other head/neck tumors: These benign tumors can also cause tinnitus.

Finally, various chronic diseases can also be associated with tinnitus:

• Diabetes
• Thyroid problems
• Migraine
• Anemia
• Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus

What are the Symptoms of Ear Ringing?

These sounds are generally not heard externally and are perceived only by the patient. The intensity and duration of the sounds vary from person to person. The symptoms can sometimes be mild and sometimes unbearable, affecting the individual’s daily life. Common types of tinnitus include:

• Whistling sound,
• Hissing sound,
• Buzzing sounds,
• High-pitched sounds,
• Throbbing sounds

These sounds can sometimes be so severe that they make it difficult to hear external noises and disrupt the individual’s concentration. This condition becomes even more apparent in quiet environments. A rare type, known as pulsatile tinnitus, is mostly heard as a pulsating or whooshing sound synchronized with the heartbeat.

What are the Risk Factors for Ear Ringing?

There are several risk factors that contribute to the development of ear ringing. Firstly, continuous exposure to high noise levels can damage the auditory nerves and trigger tinnitus. These sounds can originate from the following sources:

• Motorized saws
• Firearms
• High sound levels

In addition, age is an important factor. Over time, the number of nerve fibers in the ear decreases, leading to hearing issues and increasing the risk of tinnitus. Men are more affected by this condition compared to women. Furthermore, lifestyle choices can also pose a risk for tinnitus:

• Tobacco use
• Excessive alcohol consumption

Finally, some health issues also increase the risk of ear ringing:

• Obesity
• Cardiovascular problems
• High blood pressure
• Arthritis
• History of head trauma

How is Ear Ringing Diagnosed?

After performing audiometric examinations and tinnitus mapping, treatments and therapies for tinnitus can be discussed. In addition, various imaging methods can be used to rule out potential causes. The relevant imaging tests are:

• Angiography
• Computed Tomographic Angiography (CTA)
• Computed Tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Temporal bone CT scan
• Ultrasound

These tests are performed to identify potential causes such as vascular abnormalities or tumors. Especially in cases of pulsatile tinnitus, the doctor can more clearly identify the source of the problem with these tests.

How Does Ear Ringing Subside?

It is common for ear ringing to be a temporary condition. In some cases, tinnitus may resolve on its own, while in other cases, medical treatments may be effective. To avoid aggravating the condition, patients are advised to stay away from noisy environments during treatment. Most cases of ear-related tinnitus are accompanied by hearing loss, and these patients greatly benefit from hearing aids. For individuals who do not require hearing aids, various therapies can be applied.

Since stress can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms, stress management techniques become important. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a regular sleep schedule are also beneficial. The following may help alleviate tinnitus symptoms:

• Taking vitamin B12 supplements
• Reducing cigarette and caffeine consumption

• Yoga and acupuncture
• Use of ginkgo biloba and ginseng

Prescription medications under a doctor’s supervision can also be recommended for this condition.

What are the Treatment Methods for Ear Ringing?

The treatment methods for ear ringing vary according to the underlying causes of the condition. For example, if hearing loss is present, hearing aids can be used to correct the issue. Hearing aids can reduce the severity of the ringing and also improve the individual’s ability to communicate.

Controlling environmental factors during the treatment process is also important. In this context, the following recommendations are given:

• Avoiding high-noise environments
• Implementing stress management techniques
• Methods to improve sleep patterns

In some cases, medical treatments may be required for ear ringing. Alternative treatments include sound therapy devices specifically designed for tinnitus. These devices mask the disturbing ringing sound and divert the individual’s attention, making the tinnitus less noticeable—especially in quiet environments.

In certain cases, ear ringing may require surgical intervention. Especially if anatomical issues in the ear structure are corrected, the ringing may decrease. In advanced cases, more aggressive treatment methods such as radiotherapy may be employed.

What is Tinnitus (Ear Ringing) Masking?

Tinnitus masking is a method used for individuals experiencing ear ringing. This approach is employed especially when tinnitus becomes more pronounced in quiet environments or at night when trying to sleep. Various sounds are used to suppress the tinnitus and make it less disturbing. These sounds are usually known as white noise and help divert the individual’s attention away from the tinnitus, providing relief.

The sounds used for masking include:

• Low-volume FM radio channels
• Static noise between two radio stations
• The ticking sound of a clock
• Soft radio music

In addition, some patients use special electronic devices that produce soothing sounds. These devices contain small electronic components that are integrated into or attached to hearing aids. They continuously produce a sound at a level that is not disturbing, making the tinnitus less noticeable.

In Which Situations Should One Consult a Doctor for Ear Ringing Complaints?

Ear ringing is a symptom that may require medical intervention and can be indicative of some serious conditions. Firstly, ear ringing that persists for more than a week after respiratory infections and does not show signs of improvement should be taken seriously. Additionally, if ear ringing is accompanied by hearing loss and dizziness, one should immediately consult a doctor.

• Tinnitus that does not improve after an upper respiratory infection
• Cases accompanied by hearing loss and dizziness
• Individuals experiencing anxiety or depression as a result of ear ringing

Frequently Asked Questions

Does allergic rhinitis cause ear ringing?

Allergic rhinitis does not directly cause ear ringing. However, some individuals with allergic rhinitis may experience postnasal drip, pressure issues in the middle ear, and a feeling of fullness in the ear. In particular, complications of allergic rhinitis—such as sinusitis and nasal tissue overgrowth—can trigger ear ringing. This is because these conditions can lead to Eustachian tube dysfunction.

In cases of Eustachian tube disorders, the sensation of fullness and blockage in the ear can cause ringing. In the majority of these individuals, tinnitus is already present, and due to the blockage caused by the Eustachian tube, they may begin to perceive their ringing more clearly.

Therefore, if individuals diagnosed with allergic rhinitis experience ear ringing, it is usually due to the indirect effects of the allergy. Treatment planning should take these symptoms into account.

Which type of ear ringing is dangerous?

Ear ringing (tinnitus) is an important and common condition. Although the main causes of ringing are primarily related to the auditory system, there are many other causes—such as those related to the nervous system, cardiovascular diseases, and cervical pathologies. Identifying the cause of the ringing is very important. The dangerous situations are generally those that occur suddenly and unexpectedly.

If the ringing becomes permanent, it can be concerning. Additionally, if it appears along with other symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and loss of balance, it may be a sign of serious health issues. Since these symptoms can indicate complications related to the brain and nervous system, it is important to seek medical help promptly. In such cases, the severity of the condition should be taken into account and a specialist should be consulted.

Does chewing gum help with ear ringing?

There is no scientific evidence that chewing gum improves ear ringing. However, in some cases, chewing gum can create stress on the temporomandibular joint, thereby worsening the symptoms of ear ringing. Due to the neural and structural connections between the jaw joint and the middle ear, this stress can lead to noise and pain in the ear. Therefore, if you experience ear ringing and the symptoms worsen while chewing gum, reducing or stopping gum chewing may be beneficial. In general, stress management, dietary recommendations, and other health strategies are more effective for maintaining ear health and coping with tinnitus.

Does ear ringing (tinnitus) last a lifetime?

The onset, type, and duration of ear ringing can vary from person to person. Depending on the cause, tinnitus may resolve on its own after a certain period, or in some cases, individuals may experience it for a lifetime. Particularly in chronic tinnitus cases, complete elimination of the ringing is rare. Therefore, it should be understood that tinnitus may persist for a lifetime. However, it is not possible to predict in advance whether this condition will be continuous for every patient. In summary, ear ringing may last a lifetime; however, this does not apply to everyone.

What happens if ear ringing is not treated?

It is incorrect to make definitive statements about the treatment of ear ringing. First, a detailed audiological evaluation should be conducted to identify or rule out aural (ear-related) conditions that could cause the ringing. In ear-related conditions, hearing loss is likely. In cases where hearing loss accompanies the ringing, amplification methods can help mask the sound. In cases without hearing loss, various tinnitus therapies may be beneficial.

Despite treatment, therapy, or masking methods, there are variations of tinnitus that can affect an individual’s quality of life. Such individuals may experience secondary issues such as difficulty falling asleep, concentration problems, and irritability. Therefore, evaluations of tinnitus should consider its causal complexity, and if necessary, detailed examinations with consultations from other specialties should be conducted. After ruling out possible causes, therapy should be initiated.

Tinnitus generally leads to increased levels of stress and anxiety. Furthermore, chronic ear ringing can lead to depression. Untreated tinnitus reduces a person’s quality of life and hinders social communication.

Does ear ringing go away on its own?

Ear ringing may sometimes resolve on its own depending on its cause. However, in most cases, it only provides temporary relief. Continuous or recurring ringing may indicate another underlying health issue. Therefore, if the ringing is persistent rather than momentary, it is important to seek help as early as possible.

Prolonged ringing may be a sign of a more serious health problem. Therefore, a detailed and multidisciplinary evaluation is necessary for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Is ear ringing related to the brain?

Yes, ear ringing can sometimes be associated with the brain and nervous system. It can be linked to tumors or diseases of the brain and nervous system. This condition may occur as a result of disruptions in the signaling of the auditory system. Therefore, individuals who experience continuous and recurrent ear ringing are advised to undergo a detailed medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause. Potential problems related to the brain should be investigated.