What causes tinnitus?

Various factors can cause tinnitus, often related to auditory and neurological changes. The most common cause is inner ear cell damage, where tiny, delicate hairs in the ear move about the pressure of sound waves, triggering ear cells to release an electrical signal through the auditory nerve to the brain. When these hairs are bent or broken, they can leak random electrical impulses to the brain, causing tinnitus. Exposure to loud noise is a frequent cause of ear hair damage, especially among individuals in certain occupations or those who frequently listen to loud music. Age-related hearing loss can also contribute to tinnitus. Other causes include earwax blockage, ear bone changes, Meniere’s disease, TMJ disorders, head or neck injuries, acoustic neuroma, blood vessel disorders, and certain medications. Tinnitus is often a symptom of another underlying health condition, ranging from minor issues like earwax buildup to more severe health concerns like a tumour or circulatory system disorder. It’s important to note that sometimes, the exact cause of tinnitus remains unknown.