ENT · Ear, nose and throat

Tinnitus

Understand sounds heard without an external source and ways to reduce their impact.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

Tinnitus means hearing sounds in one or both ears, or in the head, without a matching external sound.

Ringing, buzzing, whooshing, throbbing or music may be intermittent or constant and disturb sleep and concentration.

It is often linked to hearing loss, noise, ear disease or some medicines, although the cause may remain unknown.

Assessment checks whether it is one-sided or pulsatile, examines the ears and evaluates hearing.

Audiometry and ENT examination are common; imaging or vascular tests depend on associated signs.

It may lessen, persist or fluctuate, and its impact differs greatly between people.

Treating a cause, hearing correction, sound therapy, education and psychological support may help.

Seek advice if tinnitus is regular, worsening or affects sleep, concentration or mood.

Tinnitus after a head injury, with sudden hearing loss, severe vertigo or facial weakness needs urgent help.

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.