tinnitus and Sleep Disruption Linked in New Research, Offering Potential Treatment Pathways
OXFORD, UK – Emerging research is revealing a complex interplay between tinnitus and sleep, suggesting the persistent ringing in the ears isn’t merely a symptom, but potentially linked to basic brain processes governing wakefulness and rest. Studies from both the University of Oxford and South China University of Technology demonstrate that tinnitus is associated wiht heightened brain activity that disrupts sleep, while conversely, deep sleep appears to suppress the neurological signature of the condition. These findings, published in Brain Communications (2022) and Sleep (2025), are prompting scientists to explore sleep as a critical therapeutic target for tinnitus.
The Oxford study, led by Dr. Will Milinski, reviewed existing literature and identified specific brain regions impacted by tinnitus that also play a key role in sleep regulation. Concurrently, research from China revealed individuals with tinnitus struggle to quiet their brains as they fall asleep, experiencing a continued ”hyperactivity” that hinders the transition to restful sleep. However, this hyperactivity was notably suppressed during periods of deep sleep, suggesting a natural restorative process is at play.
“I hope this research will lead to greater awareness of tinnitus and open new ways of exploring treatments,” Milinski told ScienceAlert. “Acknowledging the impact of tinnitus, especially in older adults, where hearing loss and tinnitus can increase isolation and contribute to mental health problems, is incredibly crucial.”
The Chinese study, led by Xiaoyu Bao, concluded that “This study establishes sleep as a critical therapeutic target to interrupt the 24-hour dysfunctional cycle of tinnitus.” Researchers are now investigating whether improving sleep quality can directly alleviate tinnitus symptoms, and whether the condition itself can be prevented by optimizing sleep patterns.
Milinski and his team at Oxford are currently focusing on how sleep impacts the development of tinnitus, hypothesizing a “vicious circle” where tinnitus worsens sleep, and poor sleep exacerbates tinnitus. “When we do not sleep well, we become more vulnerable to stress, and stress is one of the strongest factors known to worsen tinnitus. Stress can even trigger tinnitus to begin with,” Milinski explained. Further research into this connection could also yield insights into the broader mysteries of sleep and consciousness.
