What causes Tinnitus?

Scientists and health experts don't know the exact physical cause of Tinnitus, but several sources are known to trigger or make Tinnitus worse, including:
  • Loud noises and hearing loss – Exposure to loud noises is the biggest cause of Tinnitus. It can destroy the non-regenerative cilia (tiny hairs) in the cochlea, causing permanent Tinnitus and/or hearing loss.
  • Aging – As you age, those same cilia gradually deteriorate, which can lead to Tinnitus and/or hearing loss.
  • Hearing conditions – Conditions such as otosclerosis and Ménière’s disease are known to cause Tinnitus.