1 out of 10 Americans suffer from tinnitus

Did you know one out of 10 Americans suffer from tinnitus, a condition that results in ringing in the ears.

According to a new study, medical specialists say that this is most often caused by exposure to high decibel noises, namely music and gunfire.

About 36 percent of people suffer from ongoing tinnitus, the study revealed.

Tinnitus is a condition in the ears that results in persistent buzzing or ringing sounds when there is no actual noise being caused. The noise can vary slightly between sufferers.

For those who suffer from ongoing tinnitus, it can detract from mental focus and concentration, and can even leave them sleep deprived.

Doctors leading the study advised that many times the underlying cause of tinnitus can be traced back to occupational hazards, home exposure or lifestyle choices, such as attending loud concerts or frequently visiting the shooting range. Most concerning is noise exposure at home, which doctors say, is the most preventable cause of tinnitus.

The study advises that by adding audiological evaluations to a physical exam every few years, doctors can better identify patients with tinnitus, so they can seek an adequate treatment regimen.

More than 76,000 adult men and women took part in the study, which culled data, in part, from the National Health Interview Survey.

Of the treatment options, doctors advise hear aids, masking devices and cognitive behavioral therapy.

The study has been published in JAMA.