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What are the most common symptoms of tinnitus?

Most people suspect they are suffering from tinnitus due to the telltale symptom of “ringing in the ears.” Although often referred to as ringing, tinnitus can present itself as any persistent noise in the ears, including whistling, buzzing, whooshing, hissing, or whistling. Some patients are able to hear the noise all the time, while others may only notice symptoms at certain times of the day.

How to Discover the Source of Your Tinnitus

Tinnitus itself is actually a symptom, as many different conditions can result in head noise. Most people with tinnitus experience head noise along with some degree of hearing loss, as degeneration in the ear can result in both symptoms. However, patients may also experience tinnitus as a result of:

  • Brain injuries. Sudden-onset tinnitus can be a side effect of a traumatic injury, especially if the injury involved the head, neck, or ears.
  • Obstructions. Patients who only hear tinnitus in one of their ears may have a blockage in the ear canal that prevents proper sound transmission. Fluid buildup, swelling from an ear infection, and tumors in the ear canal can all cause one-sided tinnitus.
  • Heart problems. Tinnitus that follows a steady rhythm in tune with the patient’s heartbeat is called pulsatile tinnitus, and is usually caused by high blood pressure, circulatory problems, diabetes, or other conditions that interrupt blood flow to the ears.
  • Strokes. Heart health and poor circulation affect all areas of the body, and can cause many symptoms to arise simultaneously. Tinnitus that occurs along with personality changes, memory problems, balance issues, or trouble speaking could be due to an aneurysm or stroke.

If you are suffering from a ringing in the ears, you should make an appointment with a hearing care provider as soon as possible. A hearing test can identify potential causes of your tinnitus, allowing you to start treatment and experience tinnitus relief as quickly as possible. Use our easy online contact form to schedule a visit with one of our hearing care professionals near you.

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