Tinitus is the term used for noises or sounds which are heard in one or both ears or in the head which do not come from an external source. They are often described as a high-pitched ringing but can also be described as a buzzing, hissing, pulsing, whistling, roaring, or various other sounds. Tinitus can be very mild in loudness and only noticeable in a quiet room/bedtime or it can become extremely loud and annoying to the point where the sufferer hears nothing else. It can be present all of the time, can be intermittent, and pulsing.

The loudness of the tinitus some times varies in intensity depending on several factors such as stress, diet, noise exposure, etc. Tinnitus, like chronic pain, is subjective. Two people may report similar characteristics yet be affected in a significantly different manner. The severity of the tinitus is largely a function of the individual reaction to/or perception of, the tinitus. Many tinitus sufferers have difficulty sleeping and/or concentrating, and many are depressed.

As many as 10-15% of the adult population suffer from ringing in the ear (3 million Canadians) with more than 20% of these seeking help for the condition because it is so severe they are incapacitated (600,000 Canadians). While tinnitus does not cause hearing loss, it may accompany decreased hearing and other symptoms such as a feeling of pressure in the ear and/or unsteadiness, dizziness or vertigo. But for many people with tinitus it occurs alone with no other symptoms.