I don't remember having this ringing in my ears before menopause.  I'm 1 1/2 years out of my last period and this ringing in my head usually shows up around 4 am.  It's generally gone after waking, but today it's stayed with me (I've been up for an hour now).  Can this be related to menopause and what can I do to stop it?  

Msteil,

I don't know if tinnitus is related to meno.   Mine showed up after a rather severe sinus problem when I turned 40...14 years ago.   I also react to preservatives and caffeine now as they make it louder.

I think certain substances that you are allergic to can cause tinnitus (unless related to loud sound.)   At the same time in meno we are under stress from such change that it might make allergies worse.

Just my take....sometimes it clears up on its own..hope it does for you.   Experiment with limiting processed foods with many chemicals perhaps.

I've had tinnitus for about three years.  At first I thought I could control it with foods, etc., but I've come to realize that it won't ever completely go away.  I have tinnitus-free times, but they never last. The best thing I've found is some tinnitus message boards. The people there have given me a lot of support and help. Since I sometimes feel off-balance and a little lightheaded, I did have my ears checked out by a ENT doctor .  He says I now have slight hearing loss, and that  can be either a cause or a result of the ringing ears. I've become accustomed to it, so it doesn't bother me much anymore.  And I insert earplugs (loosely) when going to loud sporting events, concerts, or movies.  It helps a lot and keeps the tinnitus from gettimg worse.

Dear MSteil: Taking aspirin and other drugs really increases tinnitus.  What may help you, and it's simple, is to see your doctor and have him clear the wax out of your ears. Over time, it gets impacted and can cause tinnitus. Every time I get it, I have the wax cleaned and it's gone, for the most part.  You also can try switching your telephone ear, in case you are getting too much volume in one ear. Sounds strange, but it helped me.