When to See an ENT Specialist
Key Pointers:
- Tinnitus is the perception of sound with no external source, often described as ringing, buzzing, or hissing in the ears.
- Many people dismiss it as stress-related, but persistent tinnitus may signal an underlying ear or neurological condition.
- Tinnitus can be linked to hearing loss, middle ear infection, earwax, vascular issues, or medication side effects.
- Early ENT evaluation can help identify treatable causes and reduce the risk of long-term impact on hearing and mental wellbeing.
What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the perception of sound when there is no external sound present. People describe it as:
- Ringing
- Buzzing
- Humming
- Clicking
- Pulsing
It may be constant or come and go, and can affect one or both ears. While some people are able to tune it out, others find it disruptive to sleep, concentration, and emotional wellbeing.
Tinnitus is not a disease, but rather a symptom, and shouldn’t be ignored, especially if it becomes persistent or worsens over time.
When Tinnitus Is More Than “Just Stress”
It’s common to hear people say, “I’ve been hearing ringing lately, probably just stress or fatigue.” And in many cases, temporary tinnitus does resolve on its own, especially after loud noise exposure or poor sleep.
But there are certain signs that your tinnitus needs a closer look:
1. It’s Constant or Worsening
Tinnitus that lasts for more than a few days or becomes more intense over time may point to underlying ear changes, such as hearing loss or nerve irritation.
2. It’s Only in One Ear
Unilateral tinnitus (in just one ear) could suggest structural or neurological issues such as a middle ear mass or nerve-related condition and should always be evaluated by a specialist.
3. It Pulses with Your Heartbeat
Pulsatile tinnitus, a rhythmic sound that matches your heartbeat, can be linked to vascular causes like blood vessel malformations or high blood pressure.
4. It Affects Your Sleep, Focus, or Mood
Tinnitus can cause emotional stress, anxiety, and poor sleep, creating a cycle that worsens symptoms. Early ENT and audiology support can help manage these effects.
What Could Be Causing Your Tinnitus?
There are several possible causes, and often more than one factor contributes. ENT doctors typically look for:
- Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis)
- Noise-induced hearing damage (e.g. long-term earbud use)
- Earwax blockage
- Middle ear fluid or infection
- Eardrum abnormalities
- Ototoxic medications (some antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, or high-dose aspirin)
- Neurological conditions
- Vascular issues (especially with pulsatile tinnitus)
Identifying the underlying cause is key to offering the right care, whether through hearing rehabilitation, tinnitus retraining therapy, or medical treatment.
What ENT Specialists May Recommend
At Dr Lynne Lim Ear Nose Throat Head and Neck Surgery Centre, tinnitus evaluation typically includes:
- Hearing tests to check for sensorineural or conductive loss
- Otoscopy to examine the ear canal and eardrum
- Imaging (CT or MRI) if neurological or vascular causes are suspected
- Auditory processing assessments (if perception of sound clarity is affected)
- A discussion of noise exposure, medications, and health history
Depending on the findings, management may involve:
- Sound therapy or tinnitus maskers
- Hearing aids (if hearing loss is present)
- Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT)
- Medication review and adjustment
- Lifestyle advice and stress management support
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Will my tinnitus go away on its own?
Some cases of tinnitus are temporary, especially after noise exposure or illness, but persistent or one-sided tinnitus should be evaluated to rule out underlying causes.
2. Does having tinnitus mean I’m going deaf?
Not necessarily, but tinnitus is often linked to hearing loss. A full hearing assessment can help clarify the situation and guide next steps.
3. Are there medications for tinnitus?
While no cure-all medication exists for tinnitus itself, treating the underlying condition (e.g. infection, inflammation, or medication side effects) may reduce symptoms. Supportive therapies like TRT can also help.
4. What happens if I ignore tinnitus?
Ignoring persistent tinnitus may delay diagnosis of treatable conditions, and may also affect sleep, mental health, and quality of life. Early support can reduce long-term stress and discomfort.
When to Seek ENT Help for Tinnitus
It’s time to consult an ENT specialist if you or a loved one:
- Has persistent or worsening tinnitus
- Hears sound only in one ear
- Experiences tinnitus along with hearing changes, dizziness, or pressure
- Finds it difficult to focus, sleep, or cope emotionally
- Has a history of noise exposure or sudden hearing loss
At Dr Lynne Lim Ear Nose Throat Head and Neck Surgery Centre, Dr Lynne Lim, a Senior Consultant Ear Nose Throat – Head & Neck Surgeon, leads a team experienced in evaluating and managing tinnitus holistically.
The clinic offers:
- In-clinic soundproof hearing tests and tinnitus assessments
- Guidance on auditory processing concerns
- Hearing device simulation and counselling
- Collaborative support from audiologists and allied professionals
Book an appointment today if you’ve been living with ringing, buzzing, or unexplained sound in your ears, it’s worth checking, and help is available.
