Tinnitus is the perception of ringing, buzzing, or roaring sounds in the ears without an external source. This condition is typically caused by damage to the inner ear that alters how the brain interprets sound. Other potential causes include prolonged exposure to loud noises, age-related hearing loss, medications, ear infections, and head injuries.

For some individuals, tinnitus is a mild inconvenience that fades over time. For others, persistent tinnitus can disrupt sleep and lead to emotional challenges such as anxiety or depression.

If you're experiencing ringing in your ears, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider. Addressing the underlying cause and using appropriate treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Home Remedies

There is no instant cure for sudden ringing in the ears. However, certain home techniques can help reduce its intensity, especially in quiet environments where tinnitus is more noticeable.

use background noise
Using a white noise machine, fan, or ambient music can help mask the ringing. These methods are a type of sound therapy known as masking, which helps blend the tinnitus sound with environmental noise—particularly beneficial at bedtime.

limit alcohol and smoking
Reducing or eliminating alcohol may lessen tinnitus severity, as alcohol can affect blood flow to the ear. Smoking may aggravate tinnitus by constricting blood vessels and irritating inner ear structures. Quitting smoking could help improve symptoms.

Medications

Currently, there are no FDA-approved drugs specifically for tinnitus. However, some medications approved for other conditions may offer relief:

antiarrhythmics
Drugs like tocainide hydrochloride, typically used for irregular heartbeats, may improve blood flow to the ear and reduce tinnitus symptoms.

antidepressants
These may help manage emotional distress associated with tinnitus. For instance, nortriptyline has shown effectiveness in reducing tinnitus in individuals also dealing with depression.

antihistamines
Useful for people with allergies, these medications may relieve tinnitus caused by ear blockage or inner ear pressure.

anxiolytics
Benzodiazepines and barbiturates may reduce anxiety and promote sleep, easing the perception of tinnitus. However, their overall effectiveness varies.

vasodilators
These drugs improve blood flow and may benefit those whose tinnitus is linked to vascular issues. For example, flunarizine has been studied for tinnitus relief, with mixed results.

calcium channel blockers
Medications like nimodipine can alter calcium activity in cochlear cells, potentially reducing tinnitus, though some studies suggest it may worsen symptoms.

anticonvulsants
Though used for epilepsy, some anticonvulsants have been explored for tinnitus. Results are inconsistent, with many studies showing minimal benefit.

Surgeries and Procedures

While not the first line of treatment, some surgical interventions may be considered when tinnitus results from other medical conditions.

lidocaine injections
Injecting local anesthetics into the ear canal may calm abnormal nerve activity contributing to tinnitus.

lidocaine iontophoresis
This method involves using electric current to help lidocaine penetrate the eardrum. Though research is limited, it may benefit some with chronic tinnitus.

stapedectomy
For individuals with otosclerosis, replacing an abnormal stapes bone in the middle ear may restore sound transmission and potentially relieve tinnitus. Results can vary.

endolymphatic sac shunting
This procedure drains excess fluid from the inner ear in people with Meniere’s disease, which may help reduce tinnitus and other symptoms.

tumor-related surgeries
Removing benign tumors in or near the ear or brainstem may alleviate tinnitus caused by such growths.

Therapies

Various therapies—especially sound and behavioral—are widely used to manage tinnitus symptoms.

Sound Therapy

hearing aids
For those with hearing loss, hearing aids amplify external sounds, which can help reduce the contrast and perception of tinnitus.

wearable sound generators
These devices emit low-level sounds to help mask tinnitus and are worn in the ear like hearing aids.

combination devices
These dual-function tools amplify external noise and provide soothing sounds simultaneously, ideal for those with both hearing loss and tinnitus.

Behavioral Therapy

cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
CBT helps reframe negative thoughts associated with tinnitus. Learning to manage stress and emotions can reduce the impact of tinnitus on daily life.

tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT)
TRT combines CBT and sound therapy to train the brain to ignore the ringing, helping individuals consider tinnitus as a neutral sound rather than an intrusive one.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Although evidence is limited, some alternative approaches may offer relief:

acupuncture
This traditional Chinese practice involves placing thin needles in specific points on or near the ear. Some studies suggest it may reduce tinnitus severity, especially in cases related to nerve issues.

Panax ginseng
Also known as Korean ginseng, this herb may have protective effects on the inner ear. Preliminary research suggests it could reduce tinnitus loudness and improve emotional well-being.

Ginkgo biloba
Thought to enhance blood flow and reduce nerve inflammation, Ginkgo biloba has shown mixed results in treating tinnitus. It may be more effective when used alongside conventional treatments.

Coping Strategies and Support

Stress and emotional strain can make tinnitus feel more severe. Managing stress is key to improving symptoms.

practice relaxation techniques
Breathing exercises, mindfulness meditation, and yoga have been found to reduce tinnitus distress. Studies show regular practice can significantly ease stress and improve perception of tinnitus.

join a support group
Connecting with others experiencing similar issues can provide emotional relief. Resources like the American Tinnitus Association and Tinnitus Talk offer support and information.

explore helpful tools
Apps like Oto and platforms like Ida Tinnitus Tools can guide you through coping strategies and communication with your care team. Veterans may also benefit from resources under the Progressive Tinnitus Management program.

How To Prevent Tinnitus

The best prevention is protecting your ears from excessive noise.

use hearing protection
Wear earplugs at concerts, loud workplaces, or anywhere noise exceeds safe levels (generally above 80–85 decibels). Consistent protection can prevent long-term damage.

When To See a Healthcare Provider

Persistent or severe tinnitus may signal an underlying issue.

seek medical attention
Consult a healthcare provider if ringing lasts longer than a week or interferes with your life. You may be referred to an audiologist for hearing evaluation or to an ENT for more in-depth assessment.

look for contributing factors
Doctors will check for earwax buildup, infections, or other medical problems that may be causing your tinnitus. Imaging tests may also be ordered to investigate potential structural causes.

A Quick Review

Tinnitus causes a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears without an external source. A wide range of therapies—from sound therapy and behavioral counseling to medications and stress-reduction techniques—can help reduce symptoms. Although tinnitus may fade over time for some, others may live with it long-term.

If the ringing persists or worsens, consult a healthcare provider to explore possible causes and treatment options. With the right support, many people can manage tinnitus and regain a better quality of life.