About Tinnitus

Tinnitus - commonly experienced as ringing in the ears or head - is the perception of sound in the absence of an environmental acoustic stimulus. In the past much attention has been focussed on changes in the inner ears & hearing. Recent advances in neuroscientific research contribute to a clearer understanding of tinnitus by demonstrating critical involvement of distinct brain structures. This in turn prompts the development of new therapeutic approaches.

Tinnitus affects millions
10% of the adult population experience some degree of tinnitus. Even though no external sound is present, they hear ringing, roaring, clicking, hissing or buzzing noises. Many learn to ignore the sounds and experience no major effects. But for about 1 in 100 adults, the noise interferes with daily life. Sometimes it influences sleep, concentration, work and hearing. It is estimated that 13 million people in Western Europe and the USA currently seek medical advice for their tinnitus.