Ear and hearing
Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a ringing, buzzing or other sound that you hear without an outside source. Treatment looks for a cause and helps reduce its effect on sleep, concentration and daily life.
ENT care in Bandra, MumbaiAbout Dr Adip Shetty
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What tinnitus can feel like
It may affect one ear, both ears or feel as though it is inside your head. The sound can come and go. Tell the doctor if it follows your heartbeat, stays on one side, or began after a medicine change.
How it is checked
The ears are examined for wax or infection, and hearing is assessed. Scans are used for particular findings, such as a pulse-like sound or uneven hearing, rather than for everyone.
What can help?
- Treating an identified ear problem.
- Hearing aids when hearing loss affects communication.
- Gentle background sound and a regular sleep routine.
- Talking therapy, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), to reduce distress and make the sound easier to live with.
When to seek help
Arrange an appointment if tinnitus persists or affects your wellbeing. A sound that follows your heartbeat needs prompt medical assessment. Tinnitus after a head injury, or with sudden hearing loss, facial weakness or new spinning dizziness, needs urgent hospital assessment.
A note on your care
“Even when nobody else can hear the sound, its effect on your day is real. Tell me how it affects your sleep, concentration and peace of mind.”
A little more clarity
Common questions
Does tinnitus mean I am going deaf?
Not necessarily. A hearing test checks for hearing loss; tinnitus alone does not tell you how well you hear.
Is there a medicine that cures tinnitus?
There is no medicine that reliably stops tinnitus for everyone. Treating an underlying cause may help. Support can reduce the distress even if the sound remains.
Why is the ringing more noticeable at night?
Quiet surroundings can make it stand out. Gentle background sound and a consistent sleep routine may help; persistent sleep difficulty deserves support.
What if the sound follows my heartbeat?
Arrange prompt medical assessment. A pulse-like sound is checked differently from a steady ring and may need further tests.
Sources and review
Updated . General information to help you prepare for a consultation.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Adip Shetty on .