Question: I suffer from tinnitus in both ears, it hasn't bothered me when I sleep or anything and I feel I can hear fine. But does having tinnitus mean hearing loss? If not, will it lead to hearing loss, how can I prevent hearing loss if I have tinnitus?

Answer: No, tinnitus does NOT mean hearing loss. There are several theories for the causes and effects of tinnitus, but none are confirmed. Tinnitus is most often associated with exposure to loud sounds. If you have always experienced tinnitus, then chances are you have normal hearing. If your tinnitus is a result from concerts, hunting, noise exposure on the job or other loud sounds, then your chances of having a hearing loss later in life are higher.

Tinnitus is a naturally occurring phenomenon in about 50% of the population; even dogs have tinnitus that can sometimes be heard by people! The more loud sounds you are exposed to without hearing protection the more you may experience tinnitus and you have an increased chance in having hearing loss.

If you are concerned about your hearing you should make an appointment to have your hearing checked. There are often community screenings offered by groups like Easter Seals or Universities. Screenings are not complete evaluations, but they will give you a quick look at your hearing.