SciShow Explains Why Loud Noises Make Our Ears Ring

In the latest Quick Questions by SciShow, Michael Aranda explains the science behind tinnitus, a ringing in the ears caused by hearing loss, which affects 20% of the population.

Sounds 90 decibels or higher — louder than a lawnmower — make your hair cells whip around so fast that their tips actually break off. And since those cells are what tell your brain about what noise is happening, if they get damaged, your brain can get confused about whether it’s supposed to be hearing something or not.