Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the absence of an external source. It is often described as a ringing in the ears, but the actual sound can vary from person to person. People with tinnitus may describe the sound in different ways, such as buzzing, hissing, roaring, whistling, clicking, or humming. The sound can be continuous or intermittent, and its intensity may vary from mild to severe.
Tinnitus can be subjective, where only the person experiencing it can hear the sound, or it can be objective, where a healthcare professional can also detect the sound during an examination. Subjective tinnitus is more common and is typically associated with problems in the auditory system.
It's important to note that tinnitus is a symptom and not a condition itself. It can have various causes, including exposure to loud noise, age-related hearing loss, earwax blockage, certain medications, ear infections, and underlying health conditions. If you are experiencing tinnitus, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or an audiologist for a proper evaluation and guidance on managing the symptoms.