People are beginning to realize that ringing ears are more than just a simple annoyance, it is a sign that something else is wrong. Sufferers of Tinnitus (the medical term for ringing in the ears) often believe that the thudding, whining or humming they hear is just something they have to put up with. Because many people first only experience the problem at night, it is easy to try to ignore the symptom. As the ringing gradually begins to affect their hearing during their waking hours, sufferers often become more concerned. Turning to doctors for medical help doesn’t always cure the problem. The reason for this is simple: Tinnitus isn’t a disease, it is a symptom.