Tinnitus is a symptom characterized by sounds perceived in the listener’s head that are not generated from outside the body. Often described as ringing, buzzing, chirping, these sounds can be constant or intermittent, loud, soft or somewhere in between and affect 10-15% of the population.

Severe debilitating tinnitus is reported in 1-2% of the population and can have an adverse effect on the quality of life.  Until the last 5-10 years there have been few treatments to help patients deal with tinnitus.  Fortunately today there is a great deal of research with a focus on finding a cure for tinnitus. The American Tinnitus Association (http://www.ata.org) has been leading the charge to find answers. There is no reason today for any professional to tell a patient, there is nothing that can be done and he/she will just have to get used to it. Help is available.