Is there a connection between the ringing in my ears and exercise?

Question: Is there a connection between the ringing in my ears and exercise?

Answer: Tinnitus, or noises in the ears or head, is common and affects 12% to 30% of the general population. In the U.S., about 50 million people report tinnitus and only about 20 million seek medical treatment.

There is a marked difference in responses to tinnitus as some may find it debilitating, while others are able to ignore it completely. Reaction to tinnitus sound is connected to a person’s limbic brain network, which works together with other body networks for auditory processing, attention, cognitive processes, and even sleep patterns.

Much study has gone into managing tinnitus. Some studies do suggest that there is a link between higher physical activity levels and lower tinnitus distress and severity, but more study is needed.