Understand the sound
no one else can hear.
Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. It may be heard as ringing, buzzing, hissing, humming or another type of sound, and it can affect people in different ways. Understanding tinnitus can help you recognise when professional advice may be appropriate and what kinds of support may be available.
Tinnitus affects everyone differently.
For some people tinnitus is a faint background sound. For others it may interfere with concentration, sleep or emotional wellbeing. Tinnitus itself is a symptom rather than a single disease, and it can be associated with different hearing, ear-health and general-health factors.
A proper assessment can help identify possible contributing factors and guide appropriate management.
Different sounds.
Different experiences.
What Tinnitus Can Sound Like
Tinnitus may be described as ringing, buzzing, hissing, humming, clicking or another sound heard in one ear, both ears or inside the head.
Possible Contributing Factors
Tinnitus can occur alongside hearing loss, noise exposure, ear conditions and other health factors. An individual assessment is important.
Tinnitus & Hearing
Some people with tinnitus also have hearing loss, while others may not be aware of any hearing difficulty until they are assessed.
Tinnitus & Sleep
Tinnitus can feel more noticeable in quiet environments and may affect relaxation or sleep for some people.
Tinnitus & Concentration
When tinnitus is persistent or intrusive, some people find it harder to focus, read, work or follow conversations.
When to Seek Advice
If tinnitus is persistent, worsening, affecting daily life or accompanied by other ear or neurological symptoms, seek professional advice.
Assess. Understand.
Manage. Review.
Assess
A hearing and ear-health assessment can help identify whether hearing loss or another factor may be associated with the tinnitus.
Understand
Learning about tinnitus and recognising personal triggers or situations where it becomes more noticeable can reduce uncertainty.
Manage
Management may include hearing support, sound-based strategies, counselling approaches or other professionally recommended options depending on individual needs.
Review
If tinnitus changes, becomes more intrusive or new symptoms appear, further professional review may be appropriate.
Some tinnitus symptoms should not be ignored.
Seek prompt medical advice if tinnitus begins suddenly, is heard mainly in one ear, follows a head injury, is accompanied by sudden hearing loss, severe dizziness, weakness, neurological symptoms, or sounds rhythmic or pulse-like.
These features do not necessarily indicate a serious condition, but they warrant timely professional assessment.
Living With Tinnitus?
Tinnitus can feel frustrating or difficult to explain, but support is available. A qualified hearing-care or healthcare professional can help assess possible contributing factors and discuss suitable management options.