-
Buzzing
-
Hissing
-
Clicking
-
Whooshing (often related to blood flow)
-
Roaring
-
A high-pitched whine
-
A low-pitched hum
The sound can be constant or intermittent. It can be in one ear, both ears, or feel like it’s coming from the center of your head. It can be barely noticeable or loud enough to interfere with hearing real sounds.
Two main types of tinnitus:
Subjective tinnitus (95% of cases): Only you can hear the sound. It’s caused by issues in your auditory nerves, ear structures, or brain. This is the most common type.
Objective tinnitus (rare): A doctor can actually hear the sound when they listen with a stethoscope. This is usually caused by blood flow issues, muscle contractions, or middle ear bone conditions.
The vast majority of people with tinnitus have subjective tinnitus. The sound is real to you—but it’s generated by your own nervous system, not an external source.
