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Tinnitus

Overview

Open all pages about Tinnitus

Tinnitus can sound like ringing, buzzing, whooshing, humming, hissing, throbbing, music or singing. You may hear these sounds in your head or ears.

The cause of tinnitus is not always clear, but it's often linked to hearing loss, Ménière's disease, anxiety or depression, or certain conditions.

To check what may be causing your tinnitus, a GP will look in your ears for an ear infection or earwax. They may also check for any hearing loss.

Things you can do to help cope with tinnitus include trying to relax and avoiding stress or loud background noises, which can make tinnitus worse.

If your tinnitus is severe or persistent, you may be referred for cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), counselling, or tinnitus retraining therapy.

Tinnitus is where you hear noises that do not come from an outside source. It's not usually a sign of anything serious and may get better by itself.

Page last reviewed: 12/01/2024
Next review due: 12/01/2027