How to Treat Tinnitus – Causes, Symptoms & Relief

For millions of people, a persistent sound in the ears, often described as ringing, buzzing, or hissing, is a daily reality. This condition is called tinnitus, and it affects millions of Canadians each year. While the experience can range from mildly distracting to deeply distressing, many individuals don’t realize that help is available. Understanding the causes, recognizing the signs, and exploring the right tinnitus treatment options can make a significant difference.

At Bravo Hearing Centre, we’re here to guide you through your options and help you manage tinnitus in a way that works for you.

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is not a condition itself but a symptom of an underlying issue in the auditory system. It involves the perception of sound, like ringing in the ears, when no actual external sound is present. People may also describe it as buzzing, whistling, hissing, clicking, roaring, or even mechanical sounds like grinding or pulsating. The sounds may be intermittent or constant and vary in pitch and intensity.

There are two primary forms of tinnitus:

• Subjective Tinnitus: The most common type, where only the person experiencing it can hear the sound. It’s often associated with hearing loss, noise exposure, or neurological changes.
• Objective Tinnitus: Far less common; this form can sometimes be heard by a clinician using specialized equipment. It may stem from physical causes such as vascular changes or muscle movements within the ear.

Tinnitus can affect one or both ears and for some, it is a mild background noise. But for others, especially when it becomes chronic, it can impact sleep, concentration, and overall well-being.

What Are the Symptoms and Signs of Tinnitus?

The symptoms of tinnitus are highly personal and can vary widely. While most people experience it as a ringing in the ears, others describe it as:

• Buzzing, hissing, or whistling
• Clicking, pulsing, or roaring
• Crackling, ticking, or machine-like noises

Some people find their tinnitus worsens at night or in quiet environments, while others notice changes with stress or caffeine. You might also experience:

• Intermittent or constant sounds
• Pulsatile tinnitus, where the sound follows the rhythm of your heartbeat
• Somatosensory tinnitus, which can change with movements of the jaw, neck, or head

These variations help specialists determine the potential cause and the most effective treatment options for ringing in the ears.

Infographic source: Producerhive.com

Helpful Links:

• • American Tinnitus Association

What Causes Tinnitus?

Tinnitus has many possible causes, and in some cases, more than one factor may be involved. Understanding the causes can help direct treatment and prevent further irritation.

Common Causes of Tinnitus:

• Noise Exposure: Frequent exposure to loud environments, such as concerts, construction, and machinery, can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear, leading to both hearing loss and tinnitus.
• Age-Related Hearing Loss: Tinnitus often occurs alongside gradual hearing loss associated with aging.
• Earwax Blockage: Excess earwax can trap sound, create pressure, and cause temporary tinnitus.
• Ear Infections or Otosclerosis: These can affect the middle or inner ear and lead to symptoms of tinnitus.
• Medications: Known as ototoxic drugs, certain medications can trigger or worsen tinnitus.
• Head or Neck Injuries: Trauma may disrupt the auditory nerves or brain areas responsible for processing sound.
• Neurological or Metabolic Disorders: Conditions like multiple sclerosis, thyroid disease, or anemia can contribute to tinnitus.

In many cases, especially when tinnitus develops gradually, the cause may not be immediately clear. That’s why seeking expert evaluation is important.

Is There a Cure for Tinnitus?

Many people who are newly diagnosed often wonder if tinnitus can be cured. The short answer is that there is no single cure that works for every person. However, many people experience substantial relief through proper management. For example:

• Temporary tinnitus caused by ear infections, medication side effects, or stress may resolve once the underlying issue is treated.
• Chronic tinnitus can often be controlled with a personalized combination of therapies.

Think of tinnitus management as a toolbox. No one tool works for everyone, but with the right tools and guidance, your symptoms can become far more manageable.

Tinnitus Treatment Options That Can Help

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to treating tinnitus. Your plan may involve one or more of the following, depending on the type of tinnitus, underlying causes, and personal needs:

1. Sound Therapy

• Devices that produce white noise, nature sounds, or music help mask tinnitus sounds.
• Many modern hearing aids come with built-in sound generators to help redirect focus from internal noise.
• Sound therapy trains the brain to tune out tinnitus by increasing awareness of external sounds.

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• CBT helps people reframe negative thought patterns associated with tinnitus.
• It can reduce stress, anxiety, and emotional distress, which are common in those with persistent tinnitus.

3. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT)

• Combines counselling with low-level sound masking.
• Over time, it helps desensitize the brain’s response to tinnitus and makes it less noticeable.

4. Lifestyle Adjustments

• Avoid loud environments and always wear hearing protection.
• Limit stimulants like caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol.
• Establish good sleep habits and reduce screen time before bed.
• Mindfulness, yoga, or meditation can help reduce the psychological effects of tinnitus.

These combined strategies often lead to meaningful improvements in comfort, focus, and quality of life, even when a complete cure isn’t possible.

When to Seek Help from a Tinnitus Specialist

Tinnitus shouldn’t be ignored, especially if:

• It begins suddenly or without explanation
• You notice hearing loss, dizziness, or balance issues
• The sound is pulsatile or only in one ear
• It interferes with sleep, concentration, or emotional health

Consulting a tinnitus doctor or audiologist is essential for ruling out serious conditions and identifying the best treatment approach. In some cases, a referral to an ENT specialist may also be recommended.

Residents in Toronto, Etobicoke, or Mississauga can turn to Bravo Hearing Centre for expert evaluation and personalized tinnitus care.

Living with Tinnitus – Prevention and Long-Term Relief Tips

If you live with tinnitus, daily habits can make a meaningful difference. These proactive steps may help reduce symptoms and improve resilience:

• Use hearing protection in noisy environments (concerts, loud workplaces)
• Get your hearing tested regularly, especially if you work in high-noise areas
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, both of which may exacerbate symptoms
• Incorporate relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing
• Create a calm bedtime routine with soft background noise or calming apps
• Join a tinnitus support group for shared tips and emotional support

For many, the goal isn’t to eliminate tinnitus but to reduce its prominence and take back control of their daily lives. With support and consistency, that goal is achievable.

Talk to a Hearing Specialist About Tinnitus Treatment

If you’re experiencing ringing in your ears, don’t wait. Early assessment is key to identifying causes, ruling out serious conditions, and crafting a plan for relief.

Call Bravo Hearing Centre at 416-207-9711 or book your consultation online. Our experienced team will help you explore tinnitus remedies, monitor your hearing health, and support you with practical, compassionate care.