What I Wish More People Knew About Tinnitus: An Audiologist’s Perspective
Have you ever wondered why you can hear the faint static of electrical wires at night or thought you’d left the bathroom tap running? Ringing, buzzing, whooshing, or humming sounds are just a few examples of what some people hear all the time.
I’m Vanessa, an audiologist at Knox Audiology, and I’ve been hearing my tinnitus for over 20 years. While tinnitus most commonly begins in adulthood, it is also surprisingly prevalent in children. When I first noticed it, I assumed it was a loose power plug near the bed or the living room TV left on. Eventually, I realised that the constant high-pitched ringing was only heard by me. Over the years, I’ve learnt to manage it through distraction, such as listening to music, and have even come to find it quite soothing at times.
In this blog, I want to share what it’s really like to live with tinnitus, and how, as audiologists, we can help our clients understand and manage its challenges.
What Tinnitus Really Is
Tinnitus is defined as any involuntary sound that can only be heard internally. In other words, no one else can hear what you hear. Bodily sounds like joints cracking or fingers clicking are not considered tinnitus because they are audible to others.
It’s important to understand that tinnitus itself is not a disease, but rather it can be a symptom of another underlying issue. Some possible causes include:
• Hearing loss – middle or inner ear conditions
• Earwax build-up
• Ear infections
• Jaw or neck tension – temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues
• Circulatory problems
• Medication side effects
• Diabetes
• Loud noise exposure
• Vestibular conditions
• Physical trauma
• Stress or fatigue
• Lifestyle factors (e.g. alcohol, caffeine, smoking)
For many, the cause remains unknown – idiopathic tinnitus. Research suggests that more than half of those who experience tinnitus have no identifiable cause. It is also remarkably common: over 740 million adults globally experience tinnitus. Many live with it comfortably, while others find it deeply distressing.
The Emotional Impact
For some, tinnitus can affect sleep, concentration, work, and mood. Feedback from clients, and from my own experience, often shares a common theme: the emotional impact can be overwhelming.
Frustration, anxiety, and a sense of isolation can take hold, sometimes leading to negative thought patterns. It’s important to recognise that this emotional distress is real and valid. As audiologists, our role is not only to assess hearing but also to support clients emotionally and help them find effective ways to manage their symptoms.
Dispelling Common Misconceptions
Misconceptions about tinnitus can be incredibly harmful and lead people to feel hopeless. While it’s true that there is currently no “cure,” there are many effective management options.
Tinnitus is not “just in your head.” It is a real phenomenon with genuine neurological and auditory explanations. Many people become trapped in a feedback loop. The more they focus on the tinnitus, the louder it seems. The louder it becomes, the more anxious they feel, which increases awareness even further. Education and personalised strategies are essential to help break this cycle and restore a sense of control.
The Importance of Early Intervention
A sudden onset of tinnitus warrants early assessment, particularly if it occurs with hearing loss, dizziness, or ear pain. These symptoms may indicate noise-induced damage, infection, or sudden sensorineural hearing loss, which requires urgent medical attention.
At Knox Audiology, audiologists conduct comprehensive hearing assessments to identify underlying causes and prevent long-term damage. From there, we adopt a client-centred, multidisciplinary approach to care.
• Counselling and education, supported by brochures and coping resources.
• Sound therapy or hearing aids to reduce or mask tinnitus perception.
• Recommendations to Ear, Nose and Throat specialists, psychologists, or tinnitus clinics when appropriate.
• Further testing, such as vestibular assessments or medical imaging, for related symptoms.
This holistic approach ensures every client receives tailored care suited to their needs.
Practical Coping Strategies
Living with chronic tinnitus often involves combining professional guidance with daily coping techniques. Some practical strategies include:
• Play gentle background noise: such as a fan, soft music, or nature sounds.
• Avoid complete silence: silence can cause the brain to focus on the tinnitus, reinforcing the feedback loop.
• Practise mindfulness or relaxation techniques: apps like Headspace can guide you through calming exercises.
• Manage stress and maintain healthy sleep routines: rest and mental wellbeing are key to symptom control.
Finding Relief and Support
With the right mindset and guidance, many people, including myself, learn to adapt and find relief. When clients understand that tinnitus isn’t dangerous, it often becomes less intrusive and easier to manage.
Help is available, and you do not have to face tinnitus alone. As an audiologist, my goal isn’t just to measure hearing; it’s to listen, support, and guide you towards lasting relief.
If you or a loved one are struggling with tinnitus, we encourage you to book a tinnitus assessment or learn more via the Knox Audiology website. With over 30 years of service to our community, our audiologists are dedicated to helping you navigate your tinnitus journey with care and compassion.