Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

Tinnitus means a sound or noise in the ears or head without an external sound source. It can appear as buzzing, whistling, hissing, or pulsing. Tinnitus is a very common condition – an estimated 10–15% of the population experience it in some form. Severe or persistent tinnitus can significantly reduce quality of life and cause insomnia and anxiety.

Common causes of tinnitus include noise exposure, age-related hearing loss, ear infection, or side effects of medication. An ENT doctor examines the ears and assesses hearing, and if needed refers the patient to an audiologist or tinnitus specialist. A hearing aid can help if tinnitus is associated with hearing loss. Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT) and cognitive behavioral therapy can reduce the burden caused by tinnitus.