Have you ever noticed a ringing, buzzing or hissing sound in your ears when no external noise is present? You may have experienced tinnitus, a common yet often misunderstood condition that affects many Australians.
Tinnitus is not a disease itself. Instead, it is a symptom of an underlying ear or hearing issue. For some people, It is mild and short-lived. However, for others, it can become persistent and interfere with concentration, sleep and general wellbeing.
At Berkeley Medical Centre, our goal is to help patients understand what tinnitus is, recognise when it may indicate a deeper concern and know when to seek professional medical advice.
What Is Tinnitus?
In simple terms, tinnitus is the perception of sound without an external source. Most people describe it as “ringing in the ears,” but it can also sound like buzzing, hissing, humming or clicking.
The sound may affect one or both ears and it can be continuous or intermittent. Furthermore, its intensity can vary some hear a soft hum in the background, while others experience a louder, more distracting noise.
Occasional tinnitus is common, particularly after attending loud concerts or working in noisy environments. However, if the sound persists or worsens, it is important to book a GP appointment to discuss your symptoms.
Common Causes of Tinnitus
Tinnitus can develop for several reasons and understanding the underlying cause is key to finding relief. Below are the most frequent causes of tinnitus:
Earwax Build-up
When earwax accumulates and blocks the ear canal, it can create pressure changes that lead to ringing or buzzing sounds. Removing the blockage usually improves symptoms.
Age-Related Hearing Changes
As people age, hearing sensitivity naturally declines. This gradual hearing loss may sometimes trigger tinnitus.
Exposure to Loud Noise
Repeated exposure to loud sounds such as machinery, music concerts or headphones at high volume can damage inner ear structures and cause tinnitus.
Sudden Changes in Pressure or Ear Injury
Flying, diving or sudden pressure changes may cause middle ear damage, resulting in temporary tinnitus.
Ménière’s Disease
This inner ear condition affects both balance and hearing, often accompanied by tinnitus and dizziness.
Medication Side Effects
Certain medications such as high doses of aspirin, some antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs can trigger or worsen tinnitus.
Because tinnitus has many potential causes, it is essential to have a GP assess your symptoms and determine whether further testing or a specialist referral is needed.
Recognising Symptoms
Tinnitus presents differently for everyone. Some people hear faint background noise, while others find the sound intrusive. In addition, it can be associated with other symptoms, depending on the cause.
You may experience:
- Persistent ringing, buzzing or whistling sounds
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Irritability or frustration
- Dizziness or vertigo
- A sense of pressure or fullness in the ear
- Hearing changes or hearing loss
If it begins suddenly, affects one ear only or interferes with your daily activities, it is time to see a GP.
How GPs Diagnose Tinnitus
Diagnosing tinnitus often starts with a detailed conversation and examination. Your GP will ask questions about your lifestyle, medical history and exposure to noise.
During your appointment, your GP may:
- Check for earwax blockage or signs of infection
- Review any medications you are taking
- Ask about your work and leisure activities to assess noise exposure
- Discuss whether you have experienced hearing changes or balance problems
If necessary, your GP may refer you for:
- A hearing test (audiogram) to evaluate your hearing function
- An assessment by an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist
- A review with an audiologist for further investigation
These steps help identify whether tinnitus is related to hearing loss, ear damage or another condition.
Managing and Reducing Tinnitus
Although there is no single cure for tinnitus, several management strategies can help reduce its impact and improve quality of life.
Treat the Underlying Cause
If tinnitus results from earwax, infection or medication, addressing the root cause can often relieve symptoms. For example, clearing a wax blockage or reviewing medication under GP guidance may help.
Protect Your Hearing
To prevent tinnitus from worsening, avoid prolonged exposure to loud noises. Additionally, use ear protection in noisy environments and take breaks from headphones or ear buds.
Manage Stress and Sleep
Stress and fatigue can make tinnitus feel louder. Therefore, it helps to practise relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule can also support overall ear health and emotional wellbeing.
Adjust Lifestyle Habits
Making small lifestyle changes can reduce it intensity.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol intake, which can worsen symptoms.
- Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet rich in whole foods.
- Exercise regularly to improve blood circulation and reduce stress.
Living Well with Tinnitus
Although it can be frustrating, understanding it and learning effective coping strategies can make a big difference. With early assessment and simple lifestyle changes, many people manage tinnitus successfully.
At Berkeley Medical Centre, we work closely with an audiologist partner to ensure comprehensive care for our patients. Our GPs focus on your overall health and wellbeing. While we do not provide direct hearing or audiology services, we can assess your symptoms, offer guidance and refer you to trusted specialists for further care if needed.
Conclusion
Tinnitus is a common condition that affects people of all ages, but it does not have to disrupt your life. By protecting your hearing, managing stress and seeking professional advice early, you can take control of your symptoms and safeguard your ear health. If you experience persistent ringing, buzzing or humming in your ears, visit your GP for a professional evaluation. Early care can make managing it easier and improve your quality of life.
