Tinnitus

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the ears or head when no outside sound is present. Many people describe it as ringing, buzzing, humming, or whooshing.

There are two main types:

• Non-pulsatile – a steady ringing or noise. This is the most common type.

• Pulsatile – a rhythmic sound that often matches your heartbeat. This type may be related to blood flow near the ear.

Symptoms

• Ringing, buzzing, or humming in one or both ears

• Whooshing or heartbeat sound (pulsatile tinnitus)

• May be constant or come and go

• Often associated with hearing loss

• Can interfere with sleep or concentration

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Additional steps may include:

• Hearing test

• Specialized imaging for pulsatile tinnitus

• Sound therapy or masking devices

• Stress management and sleep support

• Treating underlying medical conditions if identified

While tinnitus can be frustrating, many patients improve with proper evaluation and a personalized treatment plan. Evaluation by aspecialist is especially important for pulsatile tinnitus or tinnitus in only one ear.