Tinnitus

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can access exceptional care for tinnitus. As a global leader in otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For over a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for ear, nose and throat (ENT) and head and neck conditions.

Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for complex specialty care according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of ENT and head and neck conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists has pioneered many of the otorhinolaryngological techniques used today and is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety.

When you need tinnitus care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.

Montefiore Einstein offers the following content from Healthwise’s health information library.

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a condition where individuals perceive sounds without an external source. It can occur in one or both ears or within the head and may range from a mild annoyance to a debilitating experience.

Causes of Tinnitus

Tinnitus can result from various factors, including:

  • Loud noise exposure: long-term exposure to loud environments or sudden loud noises
  • Hearing loss: often associated with age or noise-induced damage
  • Medications: certain antibiotics, anti-cancer drugs, antidepressants and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Earwax buildup or ear infections
  • Underlying conditions, such as:
    • Ménière’s disease
    • Jaw joint disorders (e.g. teeth grinding, jaw clenching)
    • Blood vessel issues (e.g. high blood pressure, atherosclerosis)
    • Acoustic neuroma and other tumors
    • Chronic conditions, including migraines, diabetes, thyroid disorders and autoimmune diseases

Signs & Symptoms of Tinnitus

Symptoms of tinnitus vary widely and may include:

  • Perception of phantom sounds, such as ringing, buzzing, humming, clicking or whistling
  • Changes in sound characteristics, such as volume, pitch or frequency
  • Symptoms triggered or worsened by head or neck movements (somatosensory tinnitus)

Diagnosing Tinnitus

Diagnosing tinnitus involves identifying its underlying cause. Common diagnostic approaches include:

  • Physical exam: inspection of the ear canal and assessment of the head, neck and ears
  • Audiology evaluation: hearing tests to measure auditory function and evaluate the tinnitus
  • Imaging studies: computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound to identify potential structural or vascular causes

Treating Tinnitus

Treatment for tinnitus depends on its cause and severity. Options include:

  • Addressing underlying causes: removing earwax, treating ear infections or managing jaw joint disorders
  • Sound therapy:
    • Hearing aids: improve hearing and mask tinnitus in patients with hearing loss
    • Sound generators and apps: provide background sounds for relaxation and sleep
    • Combination devices: combine amplification and sound masking in a single device.
  • Behavioral therapy:
    • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): helps patients reframe negative thoughts and reduce tinnitus’s emotional impact
    • Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT): combines sound therapy and counseling to help the brain adapt to tinnitus