Tinnitus
Sources consulted
This article is original patient-education content.
- WHO—Health topics A–Z(2024)
- NHS—Health A to Z(2024)
- CDC—Health topics(2024)
Based on international clinical guidelines
Overview
Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. It is often described as a ringing, buzzing, hissing, or roaring in the ears. It can be temporary or long-lasting, and may affect one or both ears.
Key facts
- Tinnitus is very common, affecting about 1 in 8 people.
- Most tinnitus is not a sign of a serious medical problem.
- There is no cure, but many people find relief with treatments like sound therapy or counseling.
Yes, tinnitus is very common. It affects about 10-15% of adults worldwide.
Tinnitus can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in older adults, especially those over 60. It can also affect people who have been exposed to loud noises, have ear injuries, or have certain medical conditions.
Symptoms
- Tinnitus that starts suddenly after a head injury or accident
- Tinnitus along with sudden hearing loss, dizziness, or weakness on one side of the body
- Tinnitus with severe ear pain or drainage from the ear
- ⚠Tinnitus that is accompanied by fever, headache, or nausea
- ⚠Tinnitus that occurs with ringing that becomes louder over several days
- ⚠Tinnitus that makes it hard to function normally
Common symptoms
- Ringing in the ears
- Buzzing or humming sounds
- Hissing or sizzling sounds
- Roaring or clicking sounds
- Sounds that come and go or are constant
- Sounds that are noticeable more in quiet environments
Symptoms in children
- Children may describe the sound as a ringing or buzzing
- They might have difficulty concentrating in school
- They may complain of ear pain or discomfort
- They might seem irritable or have trouble sleeping
Symptoms in older adults
- Sounds may be more noticeable because of age-related hearing loss
- Tinnitus can worsen with stress or fatigue
- It may affect balance or cause dizziness
- Older adults might worry it is a sign of a serious condition, but it often is not
Causes
Main causes
- Age-related hearing loss
- Exposure to loud noises
- Earwax buildup
- Ear infections or middle ear problems
- Certain medications (e.g., high doses of aspirin, some antibiotics)
- Head or neck injuries
- Circulatory system disorders
Risk factors
- Being older
- Working in noisy environments (e.g., construction, music venues)
- Frequent use of headphones at high volume
- Smoking or excessive alcohol intake
- High blood pressure or cardiovascular disease
- Anxiety or depression
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If tinnitus starts suddenly after a head injury or with hearing loss
- If tinnitus is associated with dizziness, nausea, or vomiting
- If tinnitus is only in one ear and gets worse quickly
Book a routine appointment if:
- If tinnitus is new or changes in character
- If it bothers you and affects your sleep or concentration
- If you have concerns or want to rule out underlying causes
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your medical history, what you hear, and when it started. They will also examine your ears, nose, and throat.
Tests that may be done
- Hearing test (audiogram)
- Physical examination of the ears
- Sometimes imaging tests like MRI or CT scan to check for underlying causes
What to expect at your appointment
The doctor will likely ask you to describe the sound you hear. You may be referred to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or an audiologist. Testing is usually painless and may take about an hour.
Treatment
Treatment for tinnitus focuses on managing the condition and reducing its impact on your life. While there is no cure, many approaches can help make the sound less noticeable or easier to cope with.
Self-care at home
- Avoid loud noises or wear ear protection
- Reduce stress with relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga
- Limit caffeine and alcohol, as they can worsen tinnitus
- Use sound machines or soft music to mask the sound at night
- Get enough sleep and manage fatigue
Medical treatments
Your doctor may recommend sound therapy, which uses background noise to reduce the contrast between the tinnitus and silence. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help change the way you think about the sound and reduce its distress. Some people use hearing aids if they have hearing loss. Your doctor might also prescribe medicines to help with anxiety or sleep problems, but no medicine is specifically approved for tinnitus itself.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is rarely needed for tinnitus. It may be considered if there is a clear structural problem, such as a tumor or an abnormality in the blood vessels near the ear. Your ENT specialist will discuss if surgery is appropriate for you.
Living with this condition
Living with tinnitus can be challenging, but many people manage well. Try to keep your mind occupied with hobbies or activities. Avoid complete silence if that makes the sound louder. Use a fan or white noise at night.
Lifestyle tips
- Protect your ears from loud noises
- Practice good sleep hygiene
- Stay active and exercise regularly
- Consider joining a support group
Diet and exercise
A healthy diet and regular exercise can improve your overall health and reduce stress, which may help with tinnitus. There is no specific diet proven to cure tinnitus.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Tinnitus can cause anxiety, depression, or trouble sleeping. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. You are not alone, and help is available. If you are in crisis, contact a helpline or your local emergency number.
Prevention
Some causes of tinnitus cannot be prevented, like age-related hearing loss. But you can reduce your risk by protecting your ears from loud noises and managing health conditions like high blood pressure.
Complications
If left untreated
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sleep problems
- Anxiety or depression
- Strain on relationships due to irritability
Long-term outlook
For most people, tinnitus does not get worse and may improve over time. Even if it persists, many people learn to live with it and find effective ways to manage it. With the right support and strategies, tinnitus does not have to control your life.
Find support
International organisations
Local organisations
Helplines
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.