Tinnitus is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide.* While it’s often misunderstood as a standalone issue, tinnitus can serve as a crucial indicator of potential hearing loss. Read on to learn about what tinnitus is, why it is closely linked to hearing loss, and explore the treatments available.

What is tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a common symptom of age-related hearing loss, repeated exposure to loud noise, an ear infection, or earwax build-up. It can often be described as a “ringing” or “buzzing” in the ears. These are sounds that come from inside your body, rather than an outside source. For some people, tinnitus may come and go, or it may only be a minor irritation. However, in some cases, it can have a serious impact on everyday life, which may lead to difficulty sleeping, concentrating, or connecting with the world around you.

How are tinnitus and hearing loss linked?

The link between tinnitus and hearing loss is important for understanding how tinnitus is a potential indicator of hearing loss. While it’s natural to think that tinnitus can cause hearing loss, the opposite is true. Tinnitus is a symptom of hearing loss. In fact, about 90% of people with tinnitus have a hearing loss.**

Hearing loss, whether gradual or sudden, can result from factors such as exposure to loud noises, aging, or certain medical conditions. When the auditory system is compromised, it is believed that the brain compensates for the lack of sound input by generating phantom noises, such as ringing, buzzing, or humming in the ears. Therefore, tinnitus can be viewed as a warning sign, encouraging you to pay attention to your hearing health.