How Long Does Tinnitus Last?

That persistent ringing in your ears after last night's concert still hasn't gone away, and you're starting to worry. Whether it's a buzzing, whooshing, or high-pitched tone, dealing with tinnitus can feel overwhelming and isolating. But you're not alone — nearly 50 million Americans experience this common condition.

We spoke with audiologist Melanie Hecker, founder of Bluemoth Hearing, about this condition to see what can be done for tinnitus sufferers.

What is tinnitus, exactly?

Tinnitus isn't actually a disease — it's a symptom that something else might be going on with your hearing or health. It’s the perception of sound(s) from the ears and/or within the head. While it is mostly described as a high-pitched ringing or buzzing sound, it can be perceived in various ways. The intensity, tonality, and presentation also vary from one person to the next.

What causes tinnitus?

“The primary root cause of tinnitus is an underlying, untreated hearing loss. This underlying hearing loss is highly correlated with Phantom Limb Pain, in that the brain is seeking a healthy signal from a portion of the body and creates a "phantom" sensation when no proper response is received,” explains Hecker.

While, with tinnitus, there is an underlying hearing loss issue present, it’s important to note that tinnitus, or ringing in your ears, can be present with or without symptoms of hearing loss.

Hecker explains: “When the brain sends a signal to the cochlea and doesn't get back the healthy, robust response it desires, it creates a phantom sound. When tinnitus pitch matching is performed to assist in quantifying the tonal perception of the patient, the tone selected that "matches" their tinnitus perception almost always correlates with the same frequency/frequency region where there is the most hearing loss/cochlear damage.”

Tinnitus can also be caused or worsened by certain medications, high blood pressure, noise/blast exposure, head or neck injuries, specific pathologies, major life events, and/or emotional trauma.

How long does temporary tinnitus last?

The duration of temporary tinnitus depends on what caused it in the first place. Here's what you can expect with different triggers:

How long does tinnitus last after ear infection?

Tinnitus from an ear infection typically improves once the infection clears up, usually within a few days to weeks with proper treatment. If it persists beyond the infection, check in with your healthcare provider.

How long does alcohol-induced tinnitus last?

For those who experience tinnitus after drinking, symptoms usually resolve within 24 to 48 hours of your last drink. Regular alcohol consumption might make you more susceptible to recurring episodes or even hearing loss. (Another reason why going alcohol-free, or cutting down, could be beneficial to your health.)

How long does allergy tinnitus last?

Allergy-related tinnitus often comes and goes with allergy symptoms. Managing your allergies effectively — whether through medication or avoiding triggers — can help reduce tinnitus episodes.

How long does tinnitus last after a concert?

Post-concert tinnitus, or “temporary threshold shift”, as it’s known in science-speak, is when the level of sound exceeds what our ears can comfortably hear for an extended period of time (anything above 85 decibels), typically subsides within 24-48 hours. If it lasts longer, it might indicate some hearing damage has occurred.

How long does tinnitus last after ear wax removal?

Any ringing after ear wax removal should settle within a few days. If it persists beyond a week, consult your healthcare provider.

How long does anxiety tinnitus last?

Anxiety-induced tinnitus often improves as stress levels decrease. Working with mental health professionals can help manage both anxiety and its related tinnitus symptoms.

How long does post-Covid tinnitus last?

Post-Covid tinnitus varies widely among individuals. Some report improvement within weeks, while others may experience symptoms for several months. Research is ongoing on this relatively new phenomenon.

How long does Viagra tinnitus last?

Viagra-related tinnitus typically resolves within 24-48 hours after the medication leaves your system, but there aren’t enough studies to say exactly how long it could last. If you're experiencing this side effect regularly, discuss alternative options with your healthcare provider.

How long does tinnitus last after a sinus infection?

Sinus infection-related tinnitus usually improves as the infection clears, typically within 1-2 weeks with appropriate treatment.

What is the latest treatment for tinnitus?

If you’re dealing with tinnitus, your first instinct might be to see an Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialist (ENT) or your Primary Care Physician (PCP) for your symptoms. However, audiologists are the best bet for comprehensive tinnitus care.

“An audiologist will gather a thorough case history to understand an individual's overall health and wellness concerns to make better, personalized tinnitus treatment recommendations. In some cases, tinnitus management includes a multi-disciplinary team approach including PCPs, pain and/or pharmacological care specialists, mental health specialists, and/or potential others,” explains Hecker.

An audiologist will also understand that tinnitus can present with or without symptoms of hearing loss, run the appropriate tests, and develop a treatment plan to reduce the impact of tinnitus on daily life.

“Hearing technology will [often] be prescribed and tuned to compensate for the patient’s specific hearing loss, providing the brain with the acoustic response and stimulation it wants. Therefore, it can slowly stop creating phantom sound sensations. For realistic expectations, this is unfortunately not an overnight experience — it does take time!” says Hecker.

What are the benefits of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for tinnitus?

Because tinnitus activates a person’s “fight or flight” response and has been linked to mental conditions like anxiety and depression, neurological therapies can be extremely beneficial in a tinnitus patient’s treatment plan.

Hecker adds: “Two highly effective, proven neurological methods of treatment are through sound therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Most hearing technologies now include sound therapy programs that an Audiologist can program and tailor to each individual's tinnitus needs. CBT helps deal with the thoughts, behaviors, reactions, and lifestyle impacts of bothersome tinnitus, and that makes tinnitus worse.”

What is the success rate for acupuncture for tinnitus?

While some people find relief through acupuncture, research shows mixed results. Studies indicate success rates varying from 60 to 80% for reducing tinnitus symptoms. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness as a treatment option.

Your experience with tinnitus is unique to you, and what works for one person might not work for another. The key is working with healthcare providers to find the right combination of treatments that help you manage your symptoms effectively. Don't hesitate to advocate for yourself and seek second opinions if you're not getting the relief you need.

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Brighid Flynn is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia where she lives with her husband and puppy. She is just beginning her journey toward motherhood.