Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears): Acupressure Points & Self-Care

Tinnitus is often described as a ringing in the ears. It may also sound like roaring, clicking, hissing or buzzing. Possible causes include hearing loss in older people, loud noise, ear and sinus infections, heart or blood vessel problems, Meniere's disease, thyroid problems, hormonal changes and certain medicines.

Traditional use: in TCM, points such as TE-17, GB-2 and TE-5 are traditionally used for ringing in the ears. Medical treatments include hearing aids, sound-masking devices, medicines and ways to learn to cope with the noise.

Recognizing Symptoms

Physical Symptoms

  • Ringing, roaring, clicking, hissing or buzzing in the ears

Primary Points for Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)

Select a point to learn more.

Additional Support Points

Select a point to learn more.

Self-Care Acupressure Routines

Ear Ringing Routine (5 minutes, daily)

  1. Sit quietly in a calm environment
  2. Press TE-17 very gently, then GB-2 with gentle, steady pressure
  3. Press TE-5
  4. For neck tension: add GB-20
  5. Optional: gently press SI-19

Everyday Considerations

Treatment options

  • With a provider: Hearing aids, sound-masking devices, medicines and coping techniques

When to Seek Medical Care

See a health care provider

  • Tinnitus has many possible causes; a provider can look for the one behind yours