Tinnitus assessment

Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the ears or head when no external sound is present. It is often described as a ringing, buzzing, hissing, whistling, or humming noise. The sound can vary in pitch, volume, and duration, and may be heard in one or both ears. Tinnitus is not a disease itself but a symptom of an underlying condition or issue.

Common Causes of Tinnitus:

Hearing Loss: Age-related hearing loss or noise-induced hearing loss can lead to tinnitus.
Ear Infections or Blockages: Earwax buildup, ear infections, or blockages can cause or worsen tinnitus.
Exposure to Loud Noise: Prolonged exposure to loud noises, such as music, machinery, or explosions, can damage the inner ear and cause tinnitus.
Medications: Certain medications, including some antibiotics, diuretics, and anti-inflammatory drugs, can have tinnitus as a side effect.
Head and Neck Injuries: Trauma to the head or neck can affect the auditory system and lead to tinnitus.
Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can be associated with tinnitus.

Some people may experience ear ringing for a few hours, while others may struggle with the condition for months, and others may even have it permanently.

No matter what causes it, how long you experience it or what you hear, in some cases tinnitus can be an incredibly distressing condition to live with. But the good news is that there are ways to find relief and regain your quality of life.

If you believe you may have tinnitus or are concerned about your hearing, we recommend having a full diagnostic hearing assessment with us. Our Audiologists Caroline and Juliet are registered with ACC to provide support for clients with tinnitus.

Read more about tinnitus through our blog.