Condition
Clinical term: Subjective tinnitus
Tinnitus is the perception of sound such as ringing, buzzing, hissing, or pulsation when no external sound is present. It may be constant or intermittent and can vary in intensity. Assessment focuses on identifying possible causes and reducing day-to-day impact.
Symptoms
Causes
Some degree of hearing change - even subtle and not yet noticeable in everyday life - triggering increased sensitivity in the auditory system that produces an internal sound signal.
Noise exposure over time, which is one of the most common contributing factors.
Wax build-up, ear infections, or fluid behind the eardrum - causes that often resolve once the underlying problem is treated.
Certain medications including some antibiotics and high-dose aspirin, which can cause or worsen tinnitus.
Stress and tiredness making tinnitus feel more prominent, even though they are not the underlying cause.
NICE guideline NG155: Tinnitus. 2020. British Tinnitus Association Clinical Guidelines. 2018.
When to seek help
Arrange specialist review if tinnitus is persistent, one-sided, associated with hearing loss, or affecting sleep and wellbeing. Prompt assessment is important for pulsatile tinnitus, sudden hearing change, or new neurological symptoms.
Treatment
Treatment starts with identifying contributing factors and confirming hearing status. Management may include addressing reversible ear causes, hearing support strategies, sound-based management, and coordinated care with audiology where appropriate. The aim is to reduce symptom burden and improve quality of life.
Related procedures
Choosing your surgeon
Choosing the right specialist takes thought. Fellowship training, experience with the relevant condition, and contribution to teaching and research are all meaningful indicators. A public appointment at a tertiary hospital is another recognised marker of professional standing. Online reviews can be helpful, but they don't tell the whole story.
Frequently asked questions
Not always. Tinnitus can occur with or without measurable hearing loss. A hearing assessment helps clarify whether hearing changes are present and whether they are likely contributing to your symptoms.
Tinnitus can feel louder in quiet environments because there is less external sound competing for attention. Fatigue and stress can also make the sound more intrusive at the end of the day.
Urgent review is important if tinnitus starts suddenly with hearing loss, is pulsatile in time with your heartbeat, or is accompanied by severe dizziness or neurological symptoms.
Yes. Many patients improve with targeted management that addresses hearing status, triggers, sleep impact, and coping strategies. The goal is to reduce symptom burden and improve daily function.
Yes. Simple causes such as wax build-up, middle ear fluid, or an ear infection can produce tinnitus that often improves once the underlying problem is addressed. An ear examination during your consultation helps identify whether any reversible factor is contributing to your symptoms and should be treated first.
Individual surgeons within My-ENT may approach assessment and management differently based on their subspecialty training and clinical experience. Your surgeon will discuss the most appropriate pathway for your specific situation at your consultation.