Will wearing over ear headphones cause tinnitus?

While wearing over-ear headphones at a high volume for an extended period can contribute to temporary hearing loss or exacerbate an existing tinnitus condition, it typically does not directly cause permanent tinnitus on its own. Tinnitus is generally associated with damage to the inner ear or auditory system, often originating from various other factors such as excessive noise exposure, certain medications, aging, ear infections, etc.

However, it's essential to prioritize ear health and practice safe listening habits. Listening to loud sounds, regardless of the source (including over-ear headphones or other audio devices), can permanently damage hearing over time and might indirectly influence tinnitus onset.