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What is Tinnitus

Causes, when to see an audiologist, and the options that actually work.

7 min readJanuary 2026

Tinnitus is the perception of sound — often ringing or buzzing — with no external source. It's common, and for most people it's manageable.

Common causes

Noise exposure, age-related hearing changes, and certain medications are frequent contributors. It's often linked to hearing loss.

What helps

Sound therapy, hearing aids (which can mask tinnitus while improving hearing), and simple lifestyle changes all help many people.

When to see someone

If tinnitus is persistent, one-sided, or affecting sleep, get assessed. An audiologist can rule out underlying issues and suggest a plan.

This guide is for general information and isn't a substitute for personalised medical advice. For answers specific to you, book a free hearing test with a senior audiologist.

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