Tinnitus

Having tinnitus means you can hear a sound in your ears or head which is not coming from an external sound source. The sounds you experience may sound like ringing, hissing, beeping, shushing or humming but you could also experience music or pulsing too. Often you can hear a mix of sounds all at once or you may hear a variety of many different isolated sounds; usually tinnitus is not exactly the same for any two people.

Tinnitus is not a disease or an illness, but it is a very real symptom that people do experience.

Aggravating factors

• Loud noise (like at clubs, discos or concerts)
• Changes in hearing
• Stress and anxiety
• Some drugs and medications
• Some diseases or medical issues

What happens at your appointment

You will be seen by a senior audiologist who has had further training in tinnitus and tinnitus counseling. Initial appointments are booked for 90 minutes and subsequent review appointments are generally booked for 45 to 60 minutes depending on individual cases. In the appointment we will:

• Examine your ears

• Perform a full hearing test (if you have not had a recent hearing test or you have a fluctuating conductive hearing loss) and other tests as appropriate

• Take a comprehensive history about your symptoms and medical history

• Discuss tinnitus and possible management strategies that may help including hearing aids (if needed), alternative listening devices, relaxation techniques and other counselling strategies

• Decide upon an individual management plan for you going forward

Management of tinnitus

Management of tinnitus varies from person to person and this will be discussed during your appointment to determine what you feel will be the best approach for you. 

Some management options include:

• Suitably fitted hearing aids (if required)

• Sound therapy using external devices (not worn on ears)

• Sound therapy using apps on smart phones

• Relaxation

• Mindfulness

• CBT – the audiologist may asses the need for this and ask for this to be arranged through your GP