• Medical Author:
    Benjamin Wedro, MD, FACEP, FAAEM


  • Medical Editor: Steven Doerr, MD
    Steven Doerr, MD

    Steven Doerr, MD


Quick GuideTinnitus: Why Are My Ears Ringing?

Tinnitus: Why Are My Ears Ringing?

What are the symptoms of tinnitus?

  • The sound of tinnitus may be constant or it may come and go intermittently.
  • It may be throbbing.
  • It may occur in one ear or in both ears.
  • Most often, the sound is a high pitched continuous tone, but it may also be described by the patient as a click, buzz, or a hum.
  • Tinnitus is often associated with hearing loss and the patient may complain of decreased hearing, even if the tinnitus is absent.

What kind of doctor treats tinnitus?

Often tinnitus can be evaluated by a primary-care doctor or internist, but if consultation is needed, an otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat doctor) is the specialist that evaluates and cares for people with tinnitus. Audiologists are trained to perform hearing tests and assessments.

How is tinnitus diagnosed?

The patient's history and description of symptoms is the key in determining what might be causing tinnitus.

The health-care professional may ask questions in regard to the quality of the abnormal sound, and whether it is constantly present or whether if it comes and goes. Other questions may include the following:

  • Does it involve one or both ears?
  • Does it click?
  • Is there associated decreased hearing or hearing loss?
  • Does the person feel a sensation of spinning (vertigo)?

Medications: Be prepared to provide the health-care professional a list of medications including over-the-counter (OTC) and supplements to review since tinnitus may be a side effect of certain medications.


Hearing test: An audiogram or hearing test may be performed to look for associated hearing loss in one or both ears.

Imaging: Depending upon the suspected underlying cause of tinnitus, radiology tests may be performed to image the head and neck, including the structures of the ear. These imaging tests may include CT scan, MRI and ultrasound.

Referral to a specialist: Consultation with the appropriate specialist may be needed, both for diagnosis and treatment.

Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 11/24/2015

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