Tinnitus Tinnitus Tinnitus is the hearing of sound when no external sound is present. While often described as a ringing, it may also sound like a clicking, hiss or roaring. Rarely, unclear voices or music are heard. The sound may be soft or loud, low pitched or high pitched and appear to be coming from one ear or both. Most of the time, it comes on gradually. In some people, the sound causes depression or anxiety and can interfere with concentration. Tinnitus is not a disease but a symptom that can result from a number of underlying causes. One of the
American Tinnitus Association to proficiently treat and diagnose tinnitus patients. Jack Vernon, Ph.D. joined Dr. Charles Unice to form the ATA in 1971. The two met while Dr. Vernon was conducting clinical research at the Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland, OR and began treating Dr. Unice for his tinnitus condition. With aim to raise money for tinnitus funding, the ATA was born. Portland, OR still serves as base for the organization. The ATA started in a small studio sized office and was staffed by Portland area volunteers. Since then the ATA has become the largest group of individual contributors that awards grant