Tinnitus is a condition where an individual hears a noise similar to a buzzing or ringing from within the ears, rather than from the outside environment.
Those who suffer from this condition have described the noise as "water that is continuously running" or "a deep incessant humming noise" or "a whistling sound".
In fact there are many different sounds associated with this condition as well as different types of tinnitus..
Many individuals with this condition have a lot of difficulty with their normal daily activities because of their adverse symptoms.
Sometimes, tinnitus affects their overall quality of life, and in a few cases, those acute sufferers cannot even leave their homes.
A common type of tinnitus is popularly known as subjective tinnitus where the individual suffering from this condition hears the noises, but others around cannot.
This is the noise that is generated from within.
The most common sounds of tinnitus are ringing, high pitch whistling, chirping, screeching or even some musical melodies.
All these are very disturbing and can be heard in one or both ears.
Pulsatile tinnitus is when the buzzing or humming sounds are being broadcast intermittently, pulsating in time with the individual's heart beat.
Another way of describing the types of tinnitus is by splitting it into objective and subjective.
Objective tinnitus is a rare, unusual type which can be heard by the affected individual and the examiner.
Subjective cannot be heard.
Tinnitus is commonly accompanied by a gradual hearing loss if the condition is not treated properly.
Less commonly, it may be accompanied by hyperacusis.
which is an abnormal sensitivity to all types of sounds.
Today, the exact underlying cause of tinnitus is not fully understood.
This makes it harder to treat and the diagnosis is somewhat varied.
Approximately 40 million people are affected in the United States.