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Do you hear constant ringing in the ears? If you do, probably have a disorder called tinnitus.

This ongoing annoyance is not always a “ringing” sound, as many people call it. It can also be a humming sound, buzzing, hissing, or even something like a “whoosh.”. The sound does not come from an outside stimulus. It’s being created by some disorder in your auditory system, or some issue with overall ear health.

No one knows exactly how many people suffer from constant ringing in the ears. The guesses range between 8 million and 40 million. In the United States alone, as many as 33 percent of adults may experience some form of tinnitus during their lives.  Medical researchers believe about 15 percent of those who hear these abnormal ear sounds will seek evaluation or treatment for it.

Ear noise caused by tinnitus can be mild or severe. For some people, it is so loud and so persistent it interferes with daily activities It can become extremely difficult to focus and concentrate. It can cost you many hours of sleep

Unfortunately, there are no medications you can take to cure tinnitus.  Tinnitus is a clue that you have some other problem with your hearing or your auditory system. Therefore, the key to getting relief is diagnosing and treating the cause.

What Diseases, Disorders and Conditions Cause Tinnitus?

Sometimes the source of tinnitus is not hard to diagnose. It can come from a hard knock on the head, being subjected to an exceptionally loud noise, a tumor close to an ear, or even impacted ear wax .

Doctors have identified certain diseases and disorders that may be related to tinnitus. Some of these include anemia, kidney problems, high blood pressure or hypertension, and allergies. People who are exceptionally tired or under a great deal of stress seem to be at higher risk for tinnitus. Taking too much aspirin has also been singled out as a possible cause.

However, it can also be very difficult for your doctor to find the cause of tinnitus.  Tests and evaluations procedures are available, but they don’t always provide an answer.

You can depend on one thing though. It’s very rarely “just your imagination” as some uninformed people may try to tell you.

What Options Do You Have For Relief?

The first step toward finding relief from constant ringing in the ears is getting an evaluation by an audiologist. Make an appointment with one who has been certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Once a diagnosis has been made, you have some options, including

appropriate medications and vitamins

hypnosis and biofeedback therapy

devices known as “tinnitus maskers.” These can provide relief from the constant, disturbing sounds of tinnitus. Tinnitus maskers are like hearing aids. They fill your ears with more pleasant sounds which cover up or reduce the annoying ringing, humming, etc.

You should be aware, however, that while some strategies work for some people, for others, it seems that nothing helps.

If you’re one of the millions who suffer from tinnitus, keep in mind there are many groups and organizations that can provide support and resources .

Finally, understand that dealing with constant ringing in the ears isn’t necessarily a sign that you’re going deaf. But there’s no doubt you should visit a qualified audiologist as soon as possible for a diagnosis.

George McKenzie is a former TV news anchor, medical reporter and radio talk show host.