Tinnitus: Understanding the Sounds You’re Hearing

Tinnitus is the perception of sound when there is no external source. Often described as ringing in the ears, tinnitus can also sound like buzzing, hissing, humming, whistling or roaring. For some people it comes and goes, while for others it can be more persistent.
Although tinnitus can be frustrating, it is extremely common. Millions of people experience it to some degree, and while it isn’t a condition in itself, it is often a sign that something within the hearing system has changed.
At The Hearing Care Centre, we’re here to help you understand your hearing health and identify whether tinnitus may be linked to an underlying hearing issue.

What causes Tinnitus?

There isn’t one single cause of tinnitus. Instead, it can develop for a variety of reasons, including:
  • Age-related hearing loss
  • Exposure to loud noise over time
  • Earwax build-up
  • Ear infections
  • Changes to the middle or inner ear
  • Certain medications
  • Stress or anxiety, which can make existing tinnitus seem more noticeable
In many cases, tinnitus is closely associated with hearing loss. As hearing changes, the brain can become more aware of internal sounds that would otherwise go unnoticed.

What does tinnitus sound like?

Everyone experiences tinnitus differently. While ringing is the description most people recognise, tinnitus may sound like:
  • Ringing
  • Buzzing
  • Humming
  • Hissing
  • Whistling
  • Roaring
  • Clicking
The sound may affect one ear, both ears or seem to come from inside the head. It can vary in volume throughout the day and may become more noticeable in quiet environments.

The connection between hearing loss and Tinnitus

Many people are surprised to discover that tinnitus and hearing loss often occur together.
When hearing becomes reduced, the brain receives less sound information from the ears. One theory suggests that the brain responds by increasing its sensitivity, making internal sounds more noticeable.
If hearing loss is identified, improving your ability to hear everyday sounds can often make tinnitus less noticeable, helping you focus more on the world around you rather than the sounds within your ears.

Looking after your hearing

While tinnitus isn’t always preventable, there are simple steps you can take to protect your hearing:
  • Keep personal listening devices at a sensible volume.
  • Wear hearing protection in noisy environments.
  • Take regular breaks from loud noise exposure.
  • Have your hearing checked if you notice changes.
  • Seek advice promptly if tinnitus develops suddenly or worsens.

Concerned about Tinnitus?

If you’re experiencing tinnitus, our experienced audiologists can carry out a comprehensive hearing assessment to help determine whether it’s associated with hearing loss or another hearing-related condition. Understanding what’s causing your symptoms is the first step towards protecting your hearing and finding reassurance.
Book an appointment with your local Hearing Care Centre to discuss your hearing health with one of our friendly audiologists.

Tinnitus FAQ

Although no one is completely sure yet how tinnitus develops, we do know that there are many ways in which it can be caused. More often than not, tinnitus is caused by some kind of change within the ear such as a build-up of earwax, a perforated eardrum, an ear infection, exposure to sustained loud noise or even due to other forms of illness.

If you take medication for another medical condition, it’s worth checking the side effects as certain medications can cause tinnitus in some patients. If this is the case, consult your doctor and see if an alternative is available.

Tinnitus is a problem experienced by many musicians who often suffer from tinnitus due to exposure to loud, sustained noise levels at concerts, nightclubs. It can even be caused by just listening to your music too loudy, this may cause temporary tinnitus. Over time, if habits remain the same, it can lead to chronic tinnitus. The best advice is to listen to your music at a sensible level and, if you’re going to a concert or a nightclub, consider wearing musician’s earplugs.

Not always.
Some people experience temporary tinnitus after attending a loud concert, sporting event or using noisy machinery. This often settles within a few hours or days.
For others, tinnitus may be longer lasting. While there is currently no cure for most forms of tinnitus, many people find that understanding the cause and addressing any underlying hearing loss can significantly reduce its impact on everyday life. Over time, many people also become less aware of the sounds as their brain naturally adapts.
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