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This Week - T : Tinnitus

Tinnitus is the name for hearing noises that do not come from an outside source. It's not usually a sign of anything serious and may get better by itself.

Check if you have tinnitus

Tinnitus can sound like:

• ringing
• buzzing
• whooshing
• humming
• hissing
• throbbing
• music or singing

You may hear these sounds in 1 or both ears, or in your head. They may come and go, or you might hear them all the time.

Causes of tinnitus

It's not always clear what causes tinnitus, but it's often linked to:

• some form of hearing loss
• Menieres disease
• conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders or multiple sclerosis
• anxiety or depression
• taking certain medicines - tinnitus can be a side effect of some chemotherapy medicines, antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin

See a GP if:

Ask for an urgent GP appointment if:

What happens at your appointment

The GP will look in your ears to see if your tinnitus is caused by something they can treat, like an ear infection or a build-up of earwax.

They might also check for any hearing loss.

You may be referred to a specialist for further tests and treatment.

Go to A&E or call 999 if:

Things you can try to help cope with tinnitus

If you have tinnitus there are things you can do to help cope.

The Tinnitus UK website has more information about self-help for tinnitus. Their free helpline number is 0800 018 0527.

You can also find a tinnitus support group near you on the Tinnitus UK website.

Treatments for tinnitus

If the cause of your tinnitus is unknown or cannot be treated, your GP or specialist may refer you for a type of talking therapy.

This could be:

• cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) - to change the way you think about your tinnitus and reduce anxiety
• tinnitus counselling - to help you learn about your tinnitus and find ways of coping with it
• tinnitus retraining therapy - using sound therapy to retrain your brain to tune out and be less aware of the tinnitus

You'll usually be offered digital CBT first, which is a type of CBT that's delivered through an online programme or app on your computer, tablet or smartphone.

Tinnitus retraining therapy may be available on the NHS for people with severe or persistent tinnitus. It's unclear if tinnitus retraining therapy works for everyone. It's widely available privately.

If you have hearing loss, hearing aids may be recommended.

If you want to find out more about this week's subject you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.