Tinnitus

Tinnitus is the perception of sound — such as ringing, buzzing, or hissing — without an external source. It is common and, while usually not a sign of a serious condition, can be bothersome, particularly when persistent.

• Ringing, buzzing, hissing, humming, or clicking sounds, perceived in one or both ears or in the head
• Sounds may be constant or come and go, and can vary in pitch and loudness
• Often more noticeable in quiet environments, such as at night
• Can be associated with some degree of hearing loss, though not always noticeable to the person experiencing it

• Often associated with age-related or noise-induced hearing loss, in which damage to the inner ear's sound-detecting cells is thought to alter how the brain processes sound.
• Can be triggered or worsened by exposure to loud noise, certain medicines, earwax blockage, or ear infections.
• In some cases, no specific cause is identified.
• Rarely, tinnitus in only one ear, especially if pulsing in time with the heartbeat, can indicate an underlying condition needing further assessment.

• Diagnosed through a detailed history and ear examination, including checking for earwax blockage or signs of infection that could be contributing.
• Hearing testing, where available, assesses for any associated hearing loss.
• Tinnitus that is one-sided, pulsing, or associated with other symptoms such as dizziness or facial weakness prompts further evaluation to exclude an underlying cause.

Addressing any identified contributing cause — such as removing earwax blockage or treating an ear infection — can improve or resolve tinnitus in some cases.

For persistent tinnitus without a specific treatable cause, management focuses on reducing its impact, since there is often no cure for the sound itself.

Using background sound, such as soft music or a fan, can help make tinnitus less noticeable, particularly at night.

Hearing aids can help if there is associated hearing loss, as they can reduce the prominence of tinnitus by amplifying external sounds.

Support for the distress tinnitus can cause, including counselling approaches, can be helpful for people significantly bothered by persistent symptoms.

• Protect hearing from loud noise exposure, using ear protection where needed.
• Manage earwax buildup, and seek treatment for ear infections promptly.
• Limit exposure to known personal triggers, such as excessive caffeine, if these seem to worsen symptoms.
• Seek medical assessment for tinnitus that is one-sided, pulsing, or accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness or hearing loss.