Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears): What It Means and When to Worry
By Dr. Huy – Family Medical Practice Vietnam
What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is hearing a sound when there is no outside sound present.
People may hear:
- Ringing
- Buzzing
- Hissing
- Humming
- Clicking
The sound may come from:
- One ear
- Both ears
- Inside the head
Tinnitus can be:
- Continuous
- Intermittent
- Pulsatile (beats with the heartbeat)
- Non-pulsatile
How Common Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is very common.
It affects:
- About 20% of adults
- More older adults
- People exposed to loud noise
- Smokers
Some people only notice mild symptoms, while others may have sleep problems, stress, or difficulty concentrating.
Why Does Tinnitus Happen?
Most tinnitus happens because of changes in the hearing system or brain pathways related to hearing.
When the ear does not send normal sound signals, the brain may create abnormal sound signals that the person hears as tinnitus.
This is similar to “phantom pain,” where the brain senses something that is not really there.
Common Causes of Tinnitus
Hearing Loss
The most common cause.
Examples:
- Aging-related hearing loss
- Noise damage
- Inner ear disease
Loud Noise Exposure
Long-term exposure to:
- Loud music
- Machinery
- Explosions
can damage cochlear hair cells and lead to tinnitus.
Medications
Some drugs can damage the inner ear.
Examples:
- Certain antibiotics
- Chemotherapy drugs
- High-dose aspirin
Ear Disorders
Examples:
- Meniere Disease
- Ear infection
- Fluid behind the eardrum
- Otosclerosis
Tumors
Vestibular Schwannoma may cause:
- One-sided tinnitus
- Hearing loss
- Balance problems
Blood Vessel Problems
Pulsatile tinnitus may be caused by abnormal blood flow near the ear.
People may hear:
- Whooshing
- Pulsing
- Heartbeat-like sounds
Jaw and Neck Problems
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder and neck injuries may also trigger tinnitus.
Symptoms That Need Medical Attention
See an ENT doctor if tinnitus is associated with:
- Sudden hearing loss
- One-sided symptoms
- Dizziness
- Facial weakness
- Continuous pulsing sound
- Severe headache
How Doctors Diagnose Tinnitus
Medical History
Doctors ask about:
- Hearing loss
- Noise exposure
- Medications
- Dizziness
- Ear pain
- Sleep problems
- Anxiety or stress
Physical Examination
The doctor examines:
- Ears
- Head and neck
- Cranial nerves
They may also listen around the neck and ear for abnormal blood flow sounds.
Hearing Tests
Common tests include:
- Audiogram
- Tympanometry
- Speech testing
These tests help identify hearing loss and inner ear problems.
Imaging Tests
Some patients may need:
- MRI
- CT scan
- MR angiography
especially if symptoms are:
- Pulsatile
- One-sided
- Associated with neurologic symptoms
Important Point
Most tinnitus is not dangerous, but some causes require further evaluation.
Pulsatile tinnitus and one-sided tinnitus should always be assessed carefully.
Dr. Tran Quoc Huy is an experienced Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist with extensive training and expertise in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting both children and adults. He provides comprehensive consultations and management for a wide range of ENT disorders, from common ear infections and allergies to more complex conditions requiring surgical intervention. Dr. Huy is known for his meticulous approach, clear communication, and patient-centered care, ensuring that each patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their individual needs. His commitment to evidence-based medicine and high-quality care has made him a trusted partner in helping patients maintain optimal ear, nose and throat health.
FMP Healthcare Group operates medical centers in major cities including HCMC, Ha Noi and Da Nang, offering consultations with international doctors, check-up centers and emergency ambulance services.
Visit FMP Thao Dien in Ho Chi Minh City to consult with Dr. Tran Quoc Huy.
To book an appointment, please call (028) 3744 2000 (FMP - Thao Dien), or email d2.reception@vietnammedicalpractice.com.
