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Tinnitus, often referred to as "ringing in the ears," is a condition in which people hear noises such as buzzing, hissing, whistling, or ringing in their ears. These sounds are not caused by external sources and can vary in pitch and volume. Tinnitus can be temporary or chronic and may affect one or both ears. It is a common condition, affecting millions of people worldwide.

Types of Tinnitus

There are two primary types of tinnitus:

Subjective Tinnitus: This is the most common form, where only the person affected can hear the sounds. It can be caused by various factors, including age-related hearing loss, exposure to loud noise, ear infections, or certain medications.

Objective Tinnitus: In this rare form, the sounds can be heard by a medical professional using a stethoscope or other instruments. It is often caused by muscle contractions around the ear or blood flow issues in nearby blood vessels.

Causes of Tinnitus

Tinnitus can result from a variety of causes, including:

Age-Related Hearing Loss: As people age, their hearing ability naturally declines, and tinnitus can become more prevalent.

Noise Exposure: Prolonged exposure to loud noises, such as music concerts, construction sites, or loud machinery, can damage the ear and lead to tinnitus.

Ear Infections: Infections in the ear can cause temporary or permanent tinnitus.

Earwax Buildup: Excess earwax can block the ear canal, leading to hearing problems and tinnitus.

Ototoxic Medications: Certain medications, such as antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and diuretics, can damage the ear and cause tinnitus.

Other Health Conditions: Tinnitus can be a symptom of other underlying conditions such as Meniere's disease, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), or head and neck injuries.

Try acupuncture to manage the condition and reduce its impact on daily life. 

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