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Ear

Tinnitus and ear noise

Tinnitus and ear noise can have more than one cause, so careful history, examination, and follow-up help guide safe treatment.

Tinnitus is a symptom, not a single disease. It may occur with wax, hearing loss, noise exposure, middle ear disease, medication effects, jaw problems, vascular causes, or inner ear conditions.

01

Common symptoms

Ringing or buzzing

Pulsatile sound

One sided tinnitus

Tinnitus with hearing loss

Sleep disturbance or anxiety

02

How ENT evaluation may be done

Ear examination

Hearing test

Review of medicines and noise exposure

Jaw and neck symptom screening

Imaging for selected one-sided or pulsatile tinnitus

03

Treatment options

Treating wax or ear disease

Hearing rehabilitation

Sound therapy discussion

Counselling and reassurance

Referral if pulsatile or one-sided warning signs exist

04

Home care and preparation

Reduce noise exposure

Avoid silence at bedtime if tinnitus is disturbing

Limit headphone volume

Track triggers such as stress or caffeine

05

Questions to ask during consultation

Is my tinnitus linked to hearing loss?

Do I need imaging?

Will a hearing aid help?

What warning signs should I watch for?

Warning signs

When to seek urgent care

Prompt evaluation is needed for pulsatile tinnitus, sudden hearing loss, severe dizziness, facial weakness, or neurological symptoms.

This page is for general educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified medical professional.