Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the name for hearing noises that do not come from an outside source. It's not usually a sign of anything serious and may get better by itself.
Symptoms of tinnitus
Tinnitus can sound like:
- ringing
- buzzing
- whooshing
- humming
- hissing
- throbbing
- music or singing
You may hear these sounds in 1 or both ears, or in your head. They may come and go, or you might hear them all the time.
Causes of tinnitus
It's not always clear what causes tinnitus, but it's often linked to:
- some form of hearing loss
- Ménière's disease
- conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders or multiple sclerosis
- anxiety or depression
- taking certain medicines – tinnitus can be a side effect of some chemotherapy medicines, antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin
Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:
- you have tinnitus regularly or constantly
- your tinnitus is getting worse
- your tinnitus is bothering you – for example, it's affecting your sleep or concentration, or is making you feel anxious and depressed
Urgent advice: Ask for an urgent GP appointment if:
- you have tinnitus that beats in time with your pulse
What happens at your appointment
The GP will look in your ears to see if your tinnitus is caused by something they can treat, like an ear infection or a build-up of earwax.
They might also check for any hearing loss.
You may be referred to a specialist for further tests and treatment.
Immediate action required: Go to A&E or call 999 if:
- you have tinnitus after a head injury
- you have tinnitus with sudden hearing loss, weakness in the muscles of your face, or a spinning sensation (vertigo)
Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines you take with you.
Things you can try to help cope with tinnitus
If you have tinnitus there are things you can do to help cope.
The Tinnitus UK website has more information about self-help for tinnitus. Their free helpline number is 0800 018 0527.
You can also find a tinnitus support group near you on the Tinnitus UK website.
Treatments for tinnitus
If the cause of your tinnitus is unknown or cannot be treated, your GP or specialist may refer you for a type of talking therapy.
This could be:
- cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) – to change the way you think about your tinnitus and reduce anxiety
- tinnitus counselling – to help you learn about your tinnitus and find ways of coping with it
- tinnitus retraining therapy – using sound therapy to retrain your brain to tune out and be less aware of the tinnitus
You'll usually be offered digital CBT first, which is a type of CBT that's delivered through an online programme or app on your computer, tablet or smartphone.
Tinnitus retraining therapy may be available on the NHS for people with severe or persistent tinnitus. It's unclear if tinnitus retraining therapy works for everyone. It's widely available privately.
If you have hearing loss, hearing aids may be recommended.
Page last reviewed: 12 January 2024
Next review due: 12 January 2027