What is tinnitus?

Put simply, tinnitus is the perception of sound in the ears or head where no external source is present. Some call it "ringing in the ears" or "head noise."

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 tinnitus

TINNITUS is pronounced either ti-NIGHT-us or TIN-i-tus. Both pronunciations are correct; the American Tinnitus Association uses ti-NIGHT-us. The word is of Latin origin, meaning "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, hissing, static, crickets, screeching, whooshing, roaring, pulsing, ocean waves, buzzing, dial tones, even music. Click the sound button above to hear the most common sound of tinnitus or visit free downloads for more tinnitus sounds. Please turn down your speakers or headphones before playing any sound.

ATA has a very informative CD titled Sounds of Tinnitus. featuring legendary actor Peter Graves – longtime ATA member & honorary board member – and audiologist Donna Wayner, Ph.D. Track One includes a conversation that answers many questions about tinnitus. Track Two presents tinnitus-like sounds to help you demonstrate your condition to others. Click to purchase this CD.

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. Read more about how Life can be Loud - Remember Your Hearing Protection and how to properly insert ear plugs.

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. Also, take a look at our new Professional Membership Program. Its expansive benefits will educate you and assist you in caring for those suffering with tinnitus.

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 Standard Time (PST) at (800) 634-8978.