Tinnitus: the sound pattern and when assessment is urgent

Tinnitus means hearing sound without an external source; it may buzz or hiss rather than ring. Recurring symptoms or disrupted sleep and concentration warrant assessment for hearing loss and treatable causes such as wax or infection.

Gentle background sound, a sleep routine and relaxation may help coping; total silence is not comfortable for everyone. These measures neither identify the cause nor replace assessment for persistent symptoms.

Tinnitus matching the pulse needs urgent review. After head injury, or alongside sudden hearing loss, facial weakness or spinning vertigo, it requires emergency care rather than waiting for spontaneous improvement.