Tackling tinnitus: from diet to supplements, here's advice for treating this common ailment.(SUPPLEMENTS: ASK THE NATUROPATH)

Q: I have a very annoying buzzing in ears started a few weeks ago. Is this serious? What can I do about it?

--Anna G., Los Angeles

A: Fist, you should have your ears checked. You need to be sure don't have an ear infection or other visible problem in the ear. If not, you may have tinnitus, which is not a disease, but the symptom of ringing in the ears. The cause is not always known, and it's rarely a serious problem. However, tinnitus can be the only symptom of an underlying condition such as hypertension and should be evaluated. It can certainly be irritating.

Many cases of tinnitus follow eardrum damage, which can occur with long-term exposure to loud noises. Except in severe cases, 240 mg daily of Gingko biloba (standardized to contain 24 percent flavone glycosides and 6 percent terpene lactones) may help by bringing extra blood flow to the eighth cranial nerve, which controls turning mechanical sound waves into audible nerve impulses. Tinnitus caused by a perforated eardrum usually heals over time. Tinnitus can also be caused by structural problems, such as TMJ or otosclerosis, in which the tiny ear bones behind your eardrum become fused. This can sometimes be surgically repaired.

Many drugs and other unnatural chemicals can cause tinnitus. The primary culprits include aspartame, aspirin, steroids, antidepressants, antianxiety medications, antihistamines, antiseizure drugs, cephalosporin antibiotics, and painkillers. If the drug use corresponds with the onset of your tinnitus, discuss this with your doctor and find a way ...