Tinnitus is the perception of sound when there is an absence of external physical sound. It can be perceived or described as ringing, roaring, buzzing, chirping or hissing, and varies tremendously from person to person. For some, it is just a nuisance, but for others it can be very disruptive, causing loss of concentration, sleep problems and psychological distress.
- Tinnitus should be evaluated by an otolaryngologist to determine if there is a treatable medical condition causing it.
- A tinnitus evaluation can be performed by an audiologist to determine non-medical treatment.