What is Tinnitus?

Subjective tinnitus is the most common type, affecting about 95% of people with tinnitus. Only you can hear these sounds, which originate from problems in your outer, middle, or inner ear, or from issues with your auditory nerve pathways.

This type often results from damage to the hair cells in your inner ear and can sound like ringing, buzzing, hissing, or roaring. Subjective tinnitus frequently accompanies hearing loss and may worsen with stress, fatigue, or exposure to loud sounds.

Objective tinnitus is rare, affecting less than 5% of people with tinnitus. Both you and your audiologist can hear these sounds during an examination, as they come from actual sounds generated within your body.

These sounds typically result from blood vessel problems, muscle contractions, or structural issues in your ear. Objective tinnitus often has an identifiable medical cause that can be treated, making proper evaluation important for finding the right solution.

Somatic tinnitus occurs when movements or touch to your head, neck, or jaw affect the intensity or pitch of your tinnitus. This type suggests a connection between your auditory system and your body's sensory and motor systems.

People with somatic tinnitus often notice changes in their tinnitus when they clench their jaw, turn their head, or apply pressure to certain areas. This type may respond well to treatments that address both hearing and physical factors.

Pulsatile tinnitus sounds like rhythmic pulsing, often in sync with your heartbeat or breathing. This type usually indicates blood vessel problems or increased blood flow near your ears.

Common causes include high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, or abnormal blood vessel formations. Pulsatile tinnitus requires medical evaluation to rule out serious underlying conditions and determine appropriate treatment options.