Tinnitus is noise in the ears when there is no sound. People often describe it as a ringing in the ears, but it can sound like a constant ringing, buzzing, hissing, clicking or even a roaring sound. It’s often described as a phantom noise because others cannot hear it.
Tinnitus isn’t a disease but a symptom of an underlying issue. Understanding its causes, how it’s diagnosed and the treatment available can help you take steps toward managing this frustrating condition.
Experts do not know the exact cause of tinnitus. Various factors are associated with the condition. A leading theory is tinnitus indicates some kind of disruption in how your ears process sound.
Here are some potential causes linked with tinnitus:
Tinnitus can be a symptom of many different conditions, so there’s no test to confirm the condition. Rather, diagnosis involves a comprehensive approach to identify the underlying cause.
Your journey to diagnosis typically begins with a thorough medical history. Your doctor will ask questions about:
Your doctor will also perform a thorough examination of your head, neck and ears. They will look inside your ear canal to check for wax buildup, infection or structural issues.
A hearing test is an important part of your diagnosis. Also known as an audiogram, this test measures your hearing ability and can help identify any underlying hearing loss.
Depending on your symptoms and any other findings, your doctor might recommend further tests, such as:
Tinnitus often goes away on its own or by addressing the underlying cause. For example, if excessive earwax is the cause, your doctor may remove the earwax and the symptoms resolve.
Sometimes, there’s no cure for tinnitus, and treatment focuses on helping you cope with the sounds.
Managing tinnitus can be challenging, but our personalized treatment plans can help you find relief. If you're experiencing ringing, or other sounds in your ears, our specialists at CHRISTUS Health are here to help.
