If your ears constantly hum, buzz, or ring, you’re not alone. Tinnitus affects millions worldwide, causing anything from mild annoyance to full-blown frustration. Let’s dive in and uncover what’s behind the noise, what you can do about it, and when to ask for help.  What is Tinnitus?  Tinnitus isn’t a condition—it’s a symptom. It’s when your brain hears a sound that doesn’t exist externally. While many describe it as ringing, others hear buzzing, roaring, clicking, or even humming.   - Short-term tinnitus (e.g., after a concert) often resolves on its own. - Persistent tinnitus (lasting six months or more) needs further investigation. Think of tinnitus as a fire alarm—it might not always signal an emergency, but it’s worth checking out the cause. Patient Story: Meet Sarah Sarah, a 42-year-old teacher, started noticing a faint ringing in her ears after a stressful week. Thinking it would pass, she ignored it. Months later, the ringing grew louder, interfering with her sleep. Turns out, Sarah’s tinnitus was linked to hearing loss from years of loud music during her university days.  What Causes Tinnitus?  Here are the most common triggers: Hearing Loss: Age-related (presbycusis) or noise-induced. Loud Noise Exposure: From concerts, occupational noise, or...