Mine started a couple of years ago after a really nasty throat infection. It got into my ear and killed off some of the cochlea hair cells. I have high to mid-high frequency loss of over 50% in the same ear and a loud high frequency series of tones that is pretty much constant all day and night...it never stops.
My ENT says there is no cure and I believe him based on all the research I have done on the topic. He did suggest that sometimes the hair cells that are stuck in the "on" position can be tired out by listening to white sounds that include a wide spectrum of sound in and around the same pitch as the ear tones. I have a number CDs I have recorded on my Ipod. The sounds are like wind, serf, rain, streams, and some acustical music. I don't know how well it helps but so far is is no worse (and yes I do listen at moderate volumes).
Caffeen makes it louder. Some TV shows with a too loud backround music (most of them) all sound shrill after a short time and I have to change the channel. A fever makes it louder too. Too much aspirin, too much alcohol. Being in crowds of noisy people also make the tone more shrill. Something about the collective noise of many many people talking on cell phones etc. seems to do it.
Good luck and if you find a cure let us know.
