Understanding Tinnitus

Personalized Support for Lasting Relief

Do you hear a buzzing, ringing, or humming sound that no one else can hear? It is likely tinnitus, which is a common, but often frustrating and annoying condition. Tinnitus affects millions of people and can range from a mild nuisance to a significant disruption each day. At Hear in MetroWest, we help patients better understand and manage their tinnitus using expert care and solutions personalized to their situation.
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What is Tinnitus? A Closer Look at the Ringing in Your Ears

Tinnitus is the perception of sound even though there is no real external sound. It is not a disease but a symptom of something that is having an adverse effect on your hearing system. While this is often described as a ringing sound, tinnitus can take on many forms and appear at varying levels of intensity. For some, tinnitus is occasional and quiet, and for others it is constant and extremely loud and distracting. We can help no matter what your symptoms are.

Common Sounds of Tinnitus: Ringing, Buzzing, and More

People experience tinnitus differently. You may hear sounds in one ear, both ears, or somewhere in your head. The noises can be steady, pulsing, or come and go without warning.
Common descriptions of tinnitus sounds include:
  • Ringing
  • Buzzing
  • Hissing
  • Clicking
  • Roaring
  • Whooshing or pulsing
Each person’s experience is unique, which is why personalized care is so critical.

What Causes Tinnitus?

There are numerous causes of tinnitus, and it is often related to some underlying condition.
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Common Causes

Some of the more common causes include exposure to loud noises, age-related hearing loss, blood pressure or circulation issues, and head or neck injuries.
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Ear Issues and Blockages

However, tinnitus can also be caused by earwax buildup, ear infections, blockages in the ears, and even certain medications.
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Tinnitus and Sensorineural Loss

In the case of older adults, tinnitus is often linked to sensorineural hearing loss.
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Temporary vs. Chronic Tinnitus: What’s the Difference?

Tinnitus can be either temporary or long-term, also called chronic.
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Temporary Tinnitus

Temporary tinnitus tends to follow some loud event, like a concert, and can fade away in a few hours or days. This is just your body’s way of telling you your ears were overworked.

Chronic Tinnitus

Chronic tinnitus, on the other hand, lasts for more than six months and may not go away on its own. The longer it continues, the more critical it is to seek professional evaluation and care.

How Tinnitus Affects Daily Life and Mental Health

Tinnitus does not just affect the ears; it can affect your quality of life. People with tinnitus often report they have trouble sleeping, focusing, and feel increased stress or anxiety. Over time, this can lead to frustration, depression, and mood changes if left untreated.
You may find it harder to follow conversations, enjoy quiet moments, or stay productive at work. The constant noise can feel exhausting, especially when others can’t hear what you’re experiencing. Over time, this can wear down your mental and emotional energy. Learning to manage tinnitus can improve your emotional well-being and daily ability to function. That is why a complete hearing assessment and support plan are of such importance.
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You Asked, We Answered

Better Hearing Starts With Relief

An audiologist can help determine the cause and suggest a plan for relief, whether that is sound therapy, hearing aids with tinnitus features, or strategies to improve comfort and focus.
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