Ringing, buzzing or hissing that nobody else can hear is common enough to be ordinary and specific enough to be worth evaluating properly.
Tinnitus is a symptom rather than a diagnosis, and the first step is an evaluation that includes a hearing test, because it frequently accompanies hearing loss. What the evaluation is looking for is whether there is an identifiable cause, whether hearing loss is present alongside it, and how much the sound is interfering with sleep, concentration and conversation. That last part matters as much as the measurements, and a good provider asks about it.
Management approaches exist and vary by person. They include treating the hearing loss where there is one, sound-based approaches that make the tinnitus less prominent against a background, and structured counseling approaches that address the distress and attention side of it. What none of them is, is a cure, and you should be careful with anyone who advertises otherwise or sells a supplement for it. Tinnitus that is only in one ear, that pulses in time with your heartbeat, or that arrives with sudden hearing loss or dizziness should be evaluated by a physician rather than managed at home.
Tell us what you have noticed and we will match you with a hearing care practice near you.
Get Matched With a PracticeA rough description is plenty — we will follow up to match you with a practice and set a time.