Tinnitus, commonly known as ringing in the ears, is a prevalent auditory condition affecting millions globally, with symptoms ranging from mild annoyance to severe disruption of daily life. Despite its widespread occurrence, tinnitus remains a complex phenomenon with diverse etiologies, including auditory system dysfunction, neurological disorders, and psychological stress. This article provides a comprehensive overview of tinnitus, focusing on its underlying mechanisms, classification, and associated risk factors. Furthermore, it examines current diagnostic tools and treatment modalities, including pharmacological therapies, sound therapy, cognitive-behavioural interventions, and emerging technologies such as neuromodulation. By synthesizing the latest research, this guide aims to enhance understanding among healthcare practitioners and offer practical strategies for effective management. The article concludes with a discussion of future directions in tinnitus research and therapy development

Tinnitus, ringing in the ears, auditory disorder

Baguley, DM, McFerran, DJ, & Hall, DA (2013). Tinnitus. The Lancet, 382(9904), 1600-1607.

Eggermont, JJ, & Roberts, LE (2015). The neuroscience of tinnitus. Trends in Neurosciences, 38(12), 712-722.

Langguth, B. (2011). A review of tinnitus symptoms beyond 'ringing in the ears': A call to action. Current Medical Research and Opinion, 27(8), 1635-1643.

World Health Organization. (2020). Hearing loss and tinnitus: Global prevalence and burden. Geneva: WHO Press.

Jastreboff, P. J. (1990). Phantom auditory perception (tinnitus): Mechanisms of generation and perception. Neuroscience Research, 8(4), 221–254.

Eggermont, J. J., & Roberts, L. E. (2015). The neuroscience of tinnitus. Trends in Neurosciences, 38(10), 681–693.

Henry, J. A., Zaugg, T. L., & Myers, P. J. (2014). Progressive tinnitus management: Clinical handbook for audiologists. San Diego: Plural Publishing.

Baguley, D., McFerran, D., & Hall, D. (2013). Tinnitus. The Lancet, 382(9904), 1600–1607.

Shore, S. E., Roberts, L. E., & Langguth, B. (2016). Maladaptive plasticity in tinnitus—Triggers, mechanisms, and treatment. Nature Reviews Neurology, 12(3), 150–160.

Smith, S., & Tyler, R. S. (2020). Advances in sound therapy for tinnitus management. Hearing Research, 398, 108122.