Ringing in the ears: tinnitus explained

In shortTinnitus is a symptom, usually not dangerous. See a doctor if it is in one ear, pulsing, or comes with sudden hearing loss or dizziness.

Ringing, buzzing, hissing, humming. Many people notice a sound in the ears that nobody else can hear, usually when the room is very quiet. If this is you, you are in good company: tinnitus affects a large number of adults at some point. As an ENT specialist in HSR Layout, I can tell you that it is usually not dangerous, and there is a lot we can do to help.

What is tinnitus?

Tinnitus is not a disease. It is a symptom, a sign that something in the hearing system is irritated or has changed. The sound may be constant or come and go, in one ear or both, soft or loud.

What causes it?

• Noise exposure from loud music, headphones, firecrackers or noisy workplaces
• Earwax or an ear infection
• Age-related hearing loss
• Some medicines, which should be reviewed with your doctor, never stopped on your own
• Stress, poor sleep, high blood pressure and jaw problems

When should you see a doctor?

Any tinnitus that bothers you is worth checking, but please see us promptly if:

How is it treated?

We start with an ear examination and a hearing test, and look for treatable causes such as wax, infection or blood pressure. If there is no single fixable cause, the aim is to make tinnitus less noticeable and less bothersome. Hearing aids can help if there is hearing loss. Background sound, such as a fan or soft music at night, makes the sound less intrusive. Relaxation, good sleep and reducing stress also help the brain to ignore it.

Dr. Rekha AR
Consultant ENT Specialist, MBBS, DLO. Sees patients Mon–Sat at CARE Speciality Clinic, HSR Layout.

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This article is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation.