Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears) Tinnitus is when you hear sounds like ringing, buzzing, hissing, or whistling in your ears without any external source. It may be in one or both ears and can be constant or come and go. Types of Tinnitus: • Subjective Tinnitus: Heard only by the patient – the most common type. • Objective Tinnitus: Rare. The doctor may also hear it during an examination. Usually caused by muscle spasms or blood vessel problems. Common Causes: • Age-related hearing loss (Presbycusis) • Ear infections or fluid in the ear • Exposure to loud sounds (Noise trauma) • Ear bone changes (Otosclerosis) • Inner ear conditions (like Ménière’s disease) • Certain medications (Ototoxic drugs) • Stress and anxiety • Tumors (like acoustic neuroma or glomus tumor – rare) Symptoms: • Hearing ringing, buzzing, or pulsating sounds • May be linked to hearing loss • Can cause sleep issues, difficulty concentrating, and stress Diagnosis: We take a detailed history, do an ear examination, and may recommend tests like: • Hearing test (Pure tone audiometry) • Tympanometry • MRI or CT scan (if needed) Treatment: • Treating the cause (like infection or wax removal) • Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT) – sound therapy + counseling • Hearing aids (if hearing loss is present) • Relaxation techniques and stress management • Sound masking devices (like white noise machines) When to Seek Help: If tinnitus is sudden, constant, one-sided, or affecting your daily life, consult your ENT specialist.