Straightforward Information About Tinnitus
Many people experience brief, fleeting tinnitus from time to time — a momentary ringing that lasts a few seconds and then disappears. This is usually nothing to worry about. But if tinnitus persists, there are situations where you should seek medical evaluation.
Your tinnitus lasts more than a week. Tinnitus that persists beyond a few days after a triggering event (like a loud concert) is worth having evaluated, especially if it shows no signs of fading.
It's only in one ear. Unilateral tinnitus (one side only) can sometimes indicate conditions that need investigation, such as an acoustic neuroma or asymmetric hearing loss.
It's pulsatile. Tinnitus that pulses in time with your heartbeat should always be evaluated, as it may indicate a vascular condition. See Pulsatile Tinnitus.
It came on suddenly. Sudden-onset tinnitus, especially if accompanied by sudden hearing loss, is considered a medical urgency. Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) can sometimes be treated if addressed within the first few days.
It's accompanied by other symptoms. Dizziness, vertigo, ear pain, drainage from the ear, facial numbness or weakness, or significant changes in hearing all warrant prompt evaluation.
It's causing significant distress. If tinnitus is affecting your sleep, concentration, mood, or quality of life, you deserve help. You do not need to "just live with it" without support. See Management Overview.
Your primary care physician is a reasonable starting point. They can check for easily treatable causes (earwax, ear infection, blood pressure) and refer you to a specialist if needed. For a detailed look at which specialists do what, see Specialists Who Treat Tinnitus.
At your first appointment, your doctor will likely ask about the onset, duration, and character of your tinnitus, your noise exposure history, medications, and overall health. They will examine your ears and may order a hearing test. For more detail, see What Happens at a Tinnitus Evaluation.