This article is from the Tinnitus FAQ, by markb@cccd.edu (Mark Bixby) with numerous contributions by others.
Avoid the causes listed above. Really. The number one cause of tinnitus is
exposure to excessively loud noise. Either avoid these noisy situations, or
wear hearing protection as described below. Rock concerts, movie theaters,
nightclubs, construction sites, guns, power tools, stereo headphones and
musical instruments are just some of the things that can be hazardous to
your ears. Damage can result from either a single exposure or cumulative
trauma. There are "tough" ears, and there are "weak" ears; what may be safe
or dangerous for one individual may not be the same for you. If you ever
experience temporary ringing after a sound exposure, YOU ARE AT A SEVERE
RISK FOR TINNITUS AND/OR HEARING LOSS.
If you already have tinnitus, educate your family, friends, and neighbors
so that they can keep their ears healthy.
 
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