Ringing or humming sound in ears - Is Tinnitus permanent?

Tinnitus affects about 15–20% of the population and can stem from a variety of causes. It generally does not go away on its own without proper treatment. The most common causes associated with tinnitus include:

Prolonged or occupational exposure to loud noises, such as listening to loud music or working in a noisy environment like a factory, can damage the hair cells inside the ear, causing tinnitus.

1. Ear infections – Some people experience tinnitus as a result of untreated or chronic ear infections.
2. Excess earwax buildup – A common but often overlooked cause of tinnitus.
3. Punctured eardrum – Can be caused by loud noises or changes in pressure (e.g., flying or diving).
4. Pulsatile tinnitus – Hearing your own heartbeat, often linked to blood vessel conditions like high blood pressure or vessel blockages.
5. Underlying conditions – Such as Meniere’s disease, multiple sclerosis, otosclerosis, head/neck injuries, or certain allergies.

The pitch of the ringing can vary from person to person. Lifestyle factors like alcohol, smoking, caffeine, stress, and fatigue can worsen the condition.

Can Tinnitus Go Away on Its Own?

In most cases, tinnitus does not go away on its own. Short-term exposure to loud noise may cause temporary tinnitus that improves in a few days. If the symptoms persist, it’s important to consult an ENT specialist to identify and treat the root cause.

How is Tinnitus Diagnosed?

Tinnitus is mostly subjective and might be tricky to diagnose. During your first ENT visit, the doctor may:

• Review your medical history and symptoms.
• Examine your ears, head, and neck.
• Ask you to move your eyes, arms, neck, and legs to rule out neuromuscular causes.
• Order CT or MRI scans to detect any structural issues.
• Conduct lab tests to check for anaemia, heart issues, or other conditions.

If no specific cause is found, your doctor will help manage the symptoms effectively.

Is Tinnitus Curable?

There is currently no scientifically proven cure for tinnitus. However, symptom relief is possible through treatment of the underlying cause. Options include:

• Removal of earwax blockage
• Treatment of vascular conditions
• Use of hearing aids for age-related hearing loss
• Sound therapy or masking devices
• Relaxation techniques such as exercise and deep breathing
• Medication adjustments or topical anesthetics as prescribed
• Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) – wearing a device that emits tonal music
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to reduce emotional distress

Tinnitus may be temporary depending on the cause. Identifying the underlying condition with the help of a doctor can significantly improve quality of life and reduce symptoms.