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Understanding Tinnitus -- Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms of Tinnitus?

The symptoms of tinnitus include:

  • A noise in the ears, such as ringing, roaring, buzzing, hissing, or whistling; the noise may be intermittent or continuous.
  • Most of the time, only the person who has tinnitius can hear it (subjective tinnitus). However, there are some types that the doctor can hear if a stethescope is put in the ear (objective tinnitus).

 

Recommended Related to Ear Disorders

Understanding Tinnitus -- Diagnosis and Treatment

To determine what underlying medical condition may be causing your tinnitus, your doctor will give you a general physical exam, including a careful examination of your ears. Be sure to inform your doctor of all medications you are taking because tinnitus can be a side effect of some drugs. If the source of the problem remains unclear, you may be sent to an otologist or an otolaryngologist (both ear specialists) or an audiologist (a hearing specialist) for hearing and nerve tests. As part of your...

Read the Understanding Tinnitus -- Diagnosis and Treatment article > >

Call Your Doctor About Tinnitus If:

  • You have any symptoms of tinnitus; it could be a symptom of an underlying health problem, such as high blood pressure or an underactive thyroid, that can be treated.
  • The noise is accompanied by pain or drainage from the ear; these may be signs of an ear infection.
  • The noise is accompanied by dizziness; this may be a sign of Meniere's disease or a neurological problem. Seek medical care immediately.

 

WebMD Medical Reference

Reviewed by Louis R. Chanin, MD on October 27, 2010

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