Tinnitus is the buzzing noise in one or both ears, which can be either continuous or intermittent, and can vary in intensity, to the point that patients may be unable to live normal lives.
It is estimated that about 5-15% of the general population suffers from this condition, but only 5% of them will seek medical attention and about 1% will have serious implications caused by the disease.
Most cases of tinnitus are caused by the destruction of the sensory cells in the auditory nerve in the inner ear.
The good condition of the auditory nerve is very important for good hearing and its damage leads to hearing loss and often tinnitus.
The progressive hearing loss in elder patients is often accompanied by tinnitus.
On the contrary, in young people the most common cause of the condition is exposure to loud noises.
Other possible causes are allergies, high or low blood pressure, tumors, diabetes, thyroid problems, head injuries and taking certain medicines like anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, sedatives, antidepressants and aspirin.
For some people tinnitus, may only be a minor problem, but for others it may have serious psychological implication.
According to a study of almost 900 people, conducted by the Royal National Institute for Deaf People and the British Society for tinnitus, most people stated that their personal relationships were affected by the disease, and almost 40% felt that the lack of understanding by their partner contributed to the problem.
The sufferers also felt that this condition had a negative impact on their professional lives.
Almost 50% of sufferers didn't want to talk to their colleagues about the problem, because they believed that they would not understand.
Nearly one quarter of those who had not informed their colleagues about their condition, believed that admitting their problem would affect their career prospects.
Finally, 20% of participants believed that the noise in the workplace was responsible for the onset of tinnitus.
As explained by Dr.
Karen Brounger, the results of the study confirm that the disease has a negative influence on the relationships and the professional lives of thousands of people.
How to get rid of this condition:

• Avoid exposure to loud noises.
  
• Check your blood pressure frequently and if there is indeed a problem, consult your doctor.
  
• Reduce your salt intake.
  
• Avoid coffee, tea, cigarettes and anything that contains caffeine.
  
• Work out every day to improve your blood circulation.
  
• Avoid intense fatigue and rest often.
  
• Try not to worry too much about this problem, because excessive stress can only bring aggravation of the condition.