Tinnitus affects at least one in 10 people at some time in their lives. They should consult their general practitioner so that any underlying causes can be assessed, including hearing loss. Patients who find tinnitus affects daily life and work or personal relationships can be helped by strategies such as sound-therapy devices, relaxation exercises or joining a self-help group. There is a need to raise awareness of tinnitus among health professionals, the public and patients and their families. Surveys of tinnitus patients suggest that they feel isolated and that their families and employers have little understanding of the condition. Voluntary organisations such as the Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) and the British Tinnitus Association provide useful information and resources for lay people and health professionals.