tinnitus specialist tests overview

Overview

Tinnitus is the sensation of hearing a sound that has no external source — like ringing, buzzing, hissing, or whistling. It is not a disease itself but a symptom that can have many causes.

Yes, tinnitus is very common. Many people experience it at some point in their lives, especially as they get older.

Tinnitus can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in older adults and in people who are regularly exposed to loud noise.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Ringing, buzzing, hissing, roaring, or clicking sounds in one or both ears.
• Sounds that may be constant or come and go.
• Sounds that can be heard only in quiet environments or even over background noise.

Symptoms in children

• Children may not mention the noise but might become anxious, have trouble sleeping, or have difficulty concentrating.
• They may complain of a 'noise in the head' or 'ear sounds'.

Symptoms in older adults

• Often linked to age-related hearing loss.
• May be more noticeable when background noise is low, such as at night.
• Can affect balance if the underlying cause involves the inner ear.

Causes

Main causes

• Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis).
• Exposure to loud noise, such as concerts, machinery, or firearms.
• Earwax buildup blocking the ear canal.
• Ear infections or middle ear fluid.
• Certain medications (e.g., high doses of aspirin, some antibiotics, or diuretics).
• Head or neck injuries.
• Underlying conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or thyroid problems.

Risk factors

• Being over age 60.
• Regular exposure to loud environments (work, hobbies).
• Smoking and alcohol use.
• High stress or anxiety levels.
• Being male (slightly higher risk).

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If tinnitus starts suddenly with hearing loss, dizziness, or after an injury.
• If tinnitus is only in one ear and persists or worsens.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If tinnitus lasts more than a week or affects your sleep or concentration.
• If you have a known hearing loss and want help managing it.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any medicines you take. They will examine your ears and may refer you to a hearing specialist (audiologist) or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor.

Tests that may be done

• Hearing test (audiogram) — you wear headphones and respond to sounds.
• Tympanometry — checks how your eardrum moves.
• Imaging tests like CT or MRI if the doctor suspects a problem in the head or neck.
• Blood tests if certain conditions (like thyroid issues) are suspected.

What to expect at your appointment

The tests are painless and non-invasive. They help find the cause of tinnitus and guide treatment. You can expect a relaxed setting and clear instructions.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause. If an underlying condition is found (like earwax or an infection), treating that often helps. For most cases, the focus is on managing the symptom and reducing its impact on your life.

Self-care at home

• Use gentle background noise (a fan, white noise machine, or soft music) to mask the sound.
• Reduce stress with relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
• Limit caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine — they can make tinnitus worse for some people.
• Get enough sleep and protect your ears from loud sounds.

Medical treatments

Doctors may recommend hearing aids if you have hearing loss, sound therapy to retrain your brain to ignore the tinnitus, cognitive behavioral therapy to change how you respond to the noise, or tinnitus retraining therapy (a combination of sound therapy and counseling). Some medications can help with related anxiety or sleep problems, but there is no specific drug that cures tinnitus.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely used for tinnitus alone. It may be considered if tinnitus is caused by a treatable condition like a tumor on the hearing nerve or a problem with the middle ear bones. Your doctor will discuss this if relevant.

Living with this condition

Living with tinnitus often means learning to manage the sound so it doesn't control your life. Using background noise, staying active, and keeping a routine can help. Many people find that the less they focus on it, the less bothersome it becomes.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid sudden loud noises and use earplugs in noisy places.
• Keep a regular sleep schedule and avoid late-night stimulation.
• Stay socially connected — isolation can make tinnitus feel worse.
• Try relaxation exercises like yoga or tai chi.

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet and staying physically active can improve your overall health and help you cope with stress. Some people find that reducing salt, caffeine, or sugar helps, but this varies. Talk to your doctor or a dietitian if you have concerns.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Tinnitus can lead to anxiety, depression, trouble concentrating, and sleep problems. It's important to address these feelings. Therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy can be very helpful. If you feel overwhelmed, speak with your doctor or a mental health professional.

Prevention

Not all types of tinnitus can be prevented, but you can reduce your risk by protecting your ears from loud noise, managing chronic health conditions like high blood pressure, and avoiding prolonged use of medications that can harm the ears.

Screening programmes

Routine hearing checks can catch hearing loss early, which may help prevent tinnitus from developing or worsening. If you work in a noisy environment, regular hearing tests are recommended.

Complications

If left untreated

• Difficulty concentrating and reduced productivity at work or school.
• Trouble sleeping, which can lead to fatigue and mood changes.
• Increased stress, anxiety, or depression.
• Withdrawal from social activities due to frustration or embarrassment.

Long-term outlook

For most people, tinnitus does not get worse and may even improve over time. With the right support and strategies, many learn to live comfortably and focus on what matters to them. Even if the sound doesn't go away, its impact can be greatly reduced.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.