Tinnitus living in children

Overview

Tinnitus is the medical term for hearing sounds that come from inside your body, not from outside. It is often described as ringing, buzzing, or humming in the ears or head. In children, tinnitus can be hard to recognize because they may not know it is unusual.

Tinnitus is less common in children than in adults, but studies suggest that up to 5–10% of children may experience it at some point. It is more common in children with hearing loss or frequent ear infections.

Tinnitus can affect children of all ages, including toddlers. It affects boys and girls equally. Children who have ear infections, are exposed to loud noises (such as loud music or toys), or have hearing loss are more likely to experience tinnitus.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Ringing sound in one or both ears
• Buzzing, hissing, clicking, or roaring sounds
• Sound is only heard by the child, not by others

Symptoms in children

• Children may ask 'What is that noise?' or seem distracted
• They might have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
• They may rub or tug at their ears
• Some children become irritable or have difficulty paying attention in school

Symptoms in older adults

• Tinnitus in older adults is usually linked to age-related hearing loss
• It may be more constant and bothersome
• Often described as a high-pitched ringing or hissing

Causes

Main causes

• Earwax buildup blocking the ear canal
• Ear infections (otitis media)
• Exposure to loud noises, such as music, toys, or fireworks
• Certain medications that can damage the ear (always talk to your doctor about medicine risks)
• Head or neck injuries
• Underlying conditions like otosclerosis (abnormal bone growth in the ear) or Meniere’s disease (rare in children)

Risk factors

• Frequent ear infections
• Regular exposure to loud noise without ear protection
• Family history of tinnitus or hearing loss
• Having hearing loss from any cause

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If tinnitus is accompanied by sudden hearing loss, severe dizziness, or after a head injury, seek emergency care immediately.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your child mentions hearing sounds that bother them, or you notice signs like ear rubbing or trouble sleeping
• If tinnitus lasts for more than a week or seems to be getting worse
• If your child has ear pain, discharge, or a fever along with tinnitus

Diagnosis

The doctor will start by asking about your child’s symptoms and any events that might have caused them. They will examine the ears and may do hearing tests to check for hearing loss or other issues.

Tests that may be done

• Physical exam of the ears, including checking for earwax or infection
• Hearing test (audiogram) to see how well your child hears different sounds
• Sometimes a tympanogram to check how the eardrum moves
• In rare cases, imaging tests like an MRI or CT scan if the doctor suspects a more serious cause

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will explain what tinnitus is and answer any questions. They may refer your child to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or an audiologist. For young children, special hearing tests that don't require verbal responses can be used.

Treatment

Treatment for childhood tinnitus focuses on managing the underlying cause and helping the child cope with the sounds. In many cases, the tinnitus goes away once the cause is treated.

Self-care at home

• Use a white noise machine or soft music at night to help mask the tinnitus and make sleeping easier
• Reduce exposure to loud noises – keep volume low on headphones and use ear protection at concerts or fireworks
• Encourage relaxation techniques like deep breathing or quiet playtime before bed
• Make sure your child gets enough sleep and has a calm bedtime routine

Medical treatments

Depending on the cause, doctors may recommend removing earwax, treating an ear infection with antibiotics, or adjusting any medications that might be causing tinnitus. For persistent tinnitus, sound therapy (using background noise to make the tinnitus less noticeable) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help children learn to manage the sounds. If hearing loss is present, hearing aids may be fitted to improve hearing and reduce the focus on tinnitus.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for tinnitus in children. It may be considered only if there is a specific treatable condition like a tumor or abnormal blood vessel, which is very uncommon.

Living with this condition

Living with tinnitus can be challenging, but most children learn to cope well. With support from parents and healthcare professionals, children can focus on daily activities and not let the noise bother them. It helps to keep a consistent routine and to talk openly about any worries.

Lifestyle tips

• Limit the use of headphones and personal audio devices, especially at high volume
• Encourage breaks from quiet environments – play background music or spend time outdoors
• Teach your child to focus on other sounds, like a fan or soft music, when they notice the tinnitus
• Avoid sudden loud noises and use ear protection when necessary

Diet and exercise

There is no special diet for tinnitus, but a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise can improve overall wellbeing and sleep. Some families find that reducing caffeine (found in soda and chocolate) may help, but this is not proven. Talk to your doctor before making any changes.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Tinnitus can make children feel anxious, frustrated, or sad. It may affect their sleep and concentration, which can lead to problems at school or with friends. If you notice changes in mood, behavior, or school performance, talk to your doctor. Counseling or support groups can help children and families cope.

Prevention

Not all cases of tinnitus can be prevented, but you can lower the risk by protecting your child’s hearing. Avoid exposing them to very loud noises, keep the volume on devices at safe levels, and treat ear infections promptly. Do not put objects like cotton swabs into the ear canal.

Vaccines

Vaccines that prevent infections like meningitis can reduce the risk of some causes of hearing loss and tinnitus, but there is no vaccine specifically for tinnitus.

Screening programmes

Routine hearing screenings are part of well-child visits. If you have concerns about your child’s hearing or they mention unusual sounds, ask your doctor for a hearing test.

Complications

If left untreated

• Persistent tinnitus can lead to difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep
• Children may develop anxiety or become withdrawn
• Difficulty concentrating in school can affect learning and social relationships
• Some children may avoid quiet environments or activities

Long-term outlook

The outlook for childhood tinnitus is generally very good. Many children find that the sounds go away over time, especially when the underlying cause is treated. Even if the tinnitus persists, children can learn effective strategies to manage it and continue to enjoy a normal, happy life. With proper support, most children adapt well and the tinnitus does not interfere with their daily activities.

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