Noise in the Head: Main Causes and When to Get Evaluated

You are sitting in a quiet room and hear a high-pitched whistle or a low hum that has no external source. This is tinnitus — the term doctors use for noise that a person perceives in one or both ears or "in the head." It can be quiet or loud, high- or low-pitched, constant or intermittent.

What people call noise in the head

People describe it in different ways: ringing, buzzing, hissing, humming, whistling, clicking, even music or singing. The sound may be in the ears or in the head, on one side or both, from time to time or constantly. Severe noise interferes with hearing, work, and sleep. Tinnitus by itself is usually not a sign of anything serious and may go away on its own.

Main causes of noise in the head and ears

The cause is not always found, but the noise is often associated with hearing loss, including age-related hearing loss, or with exposure to loud sounds. Other causes include Meniere's disease, ear and sinus infections, heart and vascular problems, brain tumors, hormonal changes in women, thyroid disorders, diabetes, and multiple sclerosis. Sometimes the noise is caused by certain medications: chemotherapy, antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and aspirin. Anxiety or depression can also be associated with tinnitus.

Noise in the head with normal blood pressure: what may be behind it

Normal blood pressure by itself neither rules anything out nor confirms anything: the causes of tinnitus are listed above — hearing loss, Meniere's disease, thyroid disorders, and others. If the noise coincides with the pulse, this is a separate sign that requires an urgent medical consultation. The doctor will examine the ears to rule out conditions that can be treated — for example, an infection or a buildup of earwax — and will check hearing.

Tinnitus and dizziness: what the combination indicates

If the noise appeared with sudden hearing loss, facial muscle weakness, or a sensation of spinning, this is a reason to seek immediate help. The combination of noise with a sensation of spinning is among the signs for which it is unsafe to delay.

Which examinations help find the cause

During the appointment, the doctor examines the ears and checks hearing, and if necessary refers the patient to a specialist for additional tests. Among the examinations mentioned is videonystagmography. Further management depends on the cause found. If the cause cannot be found or cannot be eliminated, the doctor may refer the patient for psychotherapeutic support to help cope with the noise more easily, and if there is hearing loss, hearing aids may be recommended.

• ear examination and hearing assessment
• check for infection or earwax impaction
• videonystagmography
• specialist consultation to clarify the cause

When noise in the head requires a doctor's visit

You should see a doctor if the noise is constant or regular, worsens, interferes with sleep and concentration, or causes anxiety or low mood. Pulsatile noise in time with the heartbeat is a reason for an urgent consultation. Noise after a head injury, with sudden hearing loss, facial muscle weakness, or a sensation of spinning requires emergency care.

Noise in the head by itself is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103 or 112 — if the noise appeared after a head injury, is accompanied by sudden hearing loss, facial muscle weakness, or a sensation of spinning.

This material is for reference: it helps you get your bearings but does not replace a doctor's consultation, which will assess your specific situation.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer