Tinnitus refers to the experience of hearing sounds when there is no external source. While it is commonly described as "ringing in the ears," many people also report hearing buzzing, hissing, whooshing, roaring, clicking, or chirping sounds. Tinnitus may affect one or both ears and can be temporary (acute) or persistent over a long period (chronic).
In some individuals, these sounds are faint and only noticeable in quiet settings. For others, they may be loud enough to interrupt sleep or make it difficult to concentrate during daily activities.
In the United States alone, an estimated 25 million adults report experiencing some form of tinnitus. This condition may appear suddenly or develop gradually and falls into two main categories: subjective and objective tinnitus. Your healthcare provider can help determine the specific type based on factors such as nerve function, hearing ability, or circulation changes.
Common Symptoms
People with tinnitus perceive sounds that have no identifiable external origin. While "ringing in the ears" is the most widely recognized symptom, tinnitus can also include:
Buzzing
Roaring
Chirping
Hissing
Clicking
Whooshing
Whirling
Everyone's experience with tinnitus can vary. You may notice differences in:
Volume: Sounds may be soft or loud, and their intensity can increase due to stress or become more noticeable in silence, such as at night.
Pitch: Sounds can range from high-pitched to low-pitched.
Ear involvement: Tinnitus can be present in one ear (unilateral) or both ears (bilateral).
Duration: Episodes may last for a short time or become long-term.
Tinnitus may interfere with your sleep, focus, and mental well-being. Many individuals with tinnitus also report additional symptoms such as:
Insomnia: Trouble falling asleep, frequent waking, or poor sleep quality.
Anxiety: Feelings of worry, fear, or tension affect up to 42% of people with tinnitus.
Depression: About a third of those with tinnitus report depressive symptoms, including low mood, fatigue, irritability, or loss of interest in daily activities.
Subjective Tinnitus Symptoms
Subjective tinnitus is by far the most common form, accounting for the vast majority of all cases. It occurs when only the affected person can hear the sound. Symptoms of this type include:
Sounds only you can hear: These may include ringing, buzzing, hissing, chirping, or roaring.
Changing sound patterns: The noise may vary in volume, be triggered or worsened by specific situations, and shift from one type of sound to another.
Fluctuations: The intensity or type of noise can change throughout the day or over time.
Objective Tinnitus Symptoms
Objective tinnitus is a rare form of tinnitus that can sometimes be heard by others, especially a healthcare provider using a stethoscope. This form of tinnitus typically results from conditions such as vascular abnormalities or muscle spasms. Symptoms include:
Rhythmic sounds: Thumping or whooshing noises in sync with your heartbeat.
Clicking or crackling: These may be caused by muscle contractions near the ear.
Symptoms in Children
Tinnitus is also relatively common in children and may affect those with or without hearing impairments. However, because younger children may not have the language skills to describe what they hear, identifying tinnitus can be difficult. Some children might think the phantom sounds are normal or learn to ignore them.
Signs of tinnitus in children include:
Behavioral changes: Increased irritability, restlessness, or trouble concentrating.
Sleep problems: Difficulty falling or staying asleep, night wakings, or daytime drowsiness.
Sensitivity to sound (hyperacusis): An aversion to loud noises.
Physical symptoms: Headaches or dizziness.
Emotional effects: Mood swings, anxiety, or signs of depression.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
If tinnitus lasts longer than a week, interrupts your daily life or sleep, or causes emotional distress, it’s time to consult a healthcare provider. A medical professional can evaluate your condition with a physical exam, hearing tests, and possibly other diagnostic procedures.
In some cases, tinnitus can signal a neurological issue requiring urgent medical attention. Seek prompt care if you experience:
Tinnitus in one ear only
Dizziness or a spinning sensation (vertigo)
Issues with balance or walking
Blurred or double vision
Difficulty speaking or swallowing
Tinnitus following a traumatic event, such as a head or neck injury
Questions to Ask Your Provider
Managing tinnitus can feel overwhelming, but having the right information can make a big difference. Consider asking your provider these questions during your appointment:
What could be causing my tinnitus?
What treatment options or devices are recommended for my symptoms?
If my tinnitus is related to hearing loss, what are my options for improving hearing and reducing the noise?
Why do the sounds seem worse at night?
Are there lifestyle changes or relaxation methods that can help?
A Quick Review
Tinnitus involves hearing sounds without an external cause. While often described as ringing, the condition may present as buzzing, hissing, or other noises. The severity of tinnitus varies—some people barely notice it, while others find it disrupts sleep and concentration.
No matter the form, tinnitus can impact your quality of life. Consulting with a healthcare provider is the first step toward understanding and managing your symptoms effectively.
