About Tinnitus

What would you like to know about tinnitus?

You may be new to the experience of tinnitus, or you may have been suffering with it for a long time. Perhaps you know someone with the problem. For all of you, we have plenty of information that will help you understand and cope with this bedeviling condition.

Pronouncing the problem

TINNITUS ti-NIGHT-us or TIN-i-tus: the perception of sound in the ears or head where no external source is present. Both pronunciations are correct. The American Tinnitus Association uses ti-NIGHT-us. The word comes from Latin and means "to tinkle or to ring like a bell."

The sound of tinnitus

In almost all cases, tinnitus is a subjective noise, meaning that only the person who has tinnitus can hear it. People describe hearing different sounds: ringing, crickets, whooshing, pulsing, ocean waves, buzzing, dial tones, even music. Click on the button to the right to hear the most common sound of tinnitus

The experience

Many people will experience their tinnitus temporarily or intermittently. Most of the people we help here at the American Tinnitus Association experience this "ringing in the ears" 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Protect yourself from Tinnitus

Click on the How Loud is Too Loud button at the right to read about the risks of loud noise and how you can avoid damage to your ears.

Information for tinnitus patients

We believe that understanding your condition will help you know your options, learn new coping skills and feel more positive about your future. Read on for well-researched, helpful patient information.

Information for professionals

We used to think that tinnitus was something patients had to "get used to." We now know that there is much more to understand and do about this problem. With exciting research, and resources like ATA, you can help your patients improve the quality of their lives by helping them manage their tinnitus. Read our information for professionals.

Resources

Feel like only you have tinnitus? Want to get in touch with others who are struggling? Take a look at our resources section. In addition, we're available by phone Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time at (800) 634-8978.