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Massachusetts Eye and Ear
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Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery

Tinnitus

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Overview

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, refers to the perception of sound when no external sound is present. It may be a temporary or chronic condition. The sudden and persistent onset of tinnitus in one ear may be a sign of sudden hearing loss and should be assessed with a hearing test within 48 hours.

Patient Story

Tinnitus: An Invisible Battle

“You start getting mad at the world for not being able to have empathy for what you’re dealing with. It was nice to see and hear that you’re dealing with a doctor who understands what you’re dealing with.”

Read Jason's story

3Common Symptoms

  • Hearing phantom noises (ringing, hissing, whistling, etc.)
  • Can vary in pitch
  • Can be sporadic or continuous

Diagnosis and Treatment

While no medical intervention can cure tinnitus at this time, tinnitus may be associated with a treatable condition such as hearing loss or other problems in the heart and blood vessels, jaws and neck.

Treating the underlying cause may diminish the perception of tinnitus. It is therefore important to see a specialist to determine the cause of the ringing. Our audiologists can use an audiogram to determine if there is hearing loss associated with the tinnitus.

Meet Our Team

Our Hearing and Balanceteam is comprised of some of the world’s finest ear surgeons, skull base surgeons, balance disorder specialists and audiologists.


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