Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is not a condition itself; it is usually a symptom of some other underlying condition such as an ear injury or a disorder of the circulatory system, according to the Mayo Clinic. While there is no cure for tinnitus, some treatments are available to reduce its severity.

Significance

According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 10 to 15 percent of adults get tinnitus symptoms that require a medical evaluation.

Types

There are two types of tinnitus: subjective tinnitus and objective tinnitus. Subjective tinnitus is a ringing in the ears that only you can hear; objective tinnitus is a ringing in the ears that your doctor can hear during an examination.

Underlying Condition Treatments

Treating an underlying condition should reduce or eliminate ringing in the ears; however, other treatment options include removing ear wax.

Noise Suppression Treatments

Sometimes your physician will provide you with an electronic device that emits white noise, such as the sound of falling rain, soothing ocean sounds or continuous, low-level sounds. White noises can suppress tinnitus symptoms as well as help you sleep during the night.

Prescription Treatments

Medications do not cure tinnitus but can reduce the symptoms. Some prescriptions include anti-depressants, anti-anxiety medicines and drugs that treat alcohol dependency.

Prevention

To prevent tinnitus you should protect your ears from loud noises. Wear ear plugs when you are in noisy environments and listen to music at low volume levels. It is also important to maintain good cardiovascular and blood vessel health, as tinnitus is sometimes linked to blood vessel disorders, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Tinnitus Definition

Mayo Clinic: Tinnitus Treatments and Drugs

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association: Tinnitus