Tinnitus (are you hearing things?)

Temporary tinnitus is common. When the symptoms continue, it can be a sign of a number of conditions:

• Prolonged exposure to loud noises (the most common cause)
• Ear blockage
• Ear infection

Tinnitus is commonly related (directly or indirectly) to headache disorders.

• Tinnitus is common in migraine with brainstem aura (basilar-type migraine) and vestibular migraine (migraine associated vertigo)
• Meniere’s disease, which includes vertigo and tinnitus, has been linked to migraine
• Physical problems such as TMJ (TMD) or head injuries may trigger tinnitus and headaches
• Cardiovascular problems and diabetes are linked both tinnitus and migraine

There are dozens of drugs that MAY cause temporary or permanent tinnitus, including:

• alcohol
• amitryptiline
• aspirin
• caffeine
• hydrocodone
• ibuprofen
• indomethacin
• marijuana
• metoprolol
• propranolol

Talk to a doctor who knows your medical history and which medications you are taking.

For more on tinnitus:

• Tinnitus (Mayo Clinic)
• Understanding Tinnitus — the Basics
• Ototoxic Medications (medications that cause hearing problems)