If Your Ears Keep Ringing, Pay Attention — Here’s When It May Be Worth Getting Checked

5. Certain Medications Could Be Contributing

Many people are surprised to learn that some medications may trigger or worsen tinnitus.

Potential culprits include:

  • Certain antibiotics
  • Some antidepressants
  • High doses of aspirin
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Certain cancer treatments

Never stop taking a prescribed medication without consulting your healthcare provider, but if ringing develops after starting a new medication, it's worth discussing with your doctor.

6. Head, Neck, or Jaw Problems

The ears are closely connected to surrounding nerves, muscles, and joints.

Injuries affecting the head or neck can sometimes lead to tinnitus. Likewise, disorders involving the jaw joint, known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, have been associated with ear ringing in some people.

Additional symptoms may include:

  • Jaw pain
  • Clicking when chewing
  • Neck stiffness
  • Headaches.