Tinnitus and the Performer

Tinnitus is a common and potentially disabling problem that is commonly associated with hearing loss. The loss of hearing may occur as a consequence of cochlear damage or other injury to the inner ear. Recent research suggests that tinnitus may be due to spontaneous neural activity in central auditory pathways. These pathways appear to be altered as the consequence of deafferentation. These aberrant pathways may also link the auditory system with other elements of the central nervous system. Since the treatment for tinnitus is largely unsatisfactory, preventing tinnitus by adopting measures designed to preserve hearing is appropriate and prudent. The prevention of hearing loss is an important goal for everyone, particularly musicians.