Tinnitus is usually described by patients as a ringing, buzzing, whooshing, whistling or similar noise in one or both ears.

The sound heard has no external source and cannot be heard by another person. Patients who experience tinnitus usually describe it as annoying and or distracting as depending on how loud it is, it can be difficult to fall asleep or focus during conversation.

Tinnitis is typically at its worst when you are in a quiet environment, for example, when you are trying to fall asleep. Due to there being no other sounds to “drown” out the tinnitus or distract you from it.

Patients who are experiencing a loss of hearing, whether age related or medical related may also notice their tinnitus more frequently due to their reduced hearing.

Unfortunately there is currently no cure for tinnitus however there are ways to manage it. Including medication, behavioural therapy and sound therapies (hearing aids, white noise machines etc). If you are looking to start a course of tinnitus management, contact your GP for more information.