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Tinnitus

Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears): Common Causes and Next Steps

Learn what tinnitus is, what can trigger it, and which signs suggest you should seek assessment sooner.

Updated 2025-07-18•11 min read
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What tinnitus is

Tinnitus is the perception of sound (ringing, buzzing, humming) without an external source.

It’s a symptom, not a diagnosis — many different conditions can contribute.

Common triggers

  • Noise exposure
  • Hearing loss
  • Stress and poor sleep
  • Earwax or ear infections
  • Certain medications

When to seek help quickly

  • Sudden hearing change
  • Tinnitus in one ear only (new)
  • Dizziness or balance issues
  • Pulsing sound in time with your heartbeat (pulsatile tinnitus)

A practical next step

If tinnitus is new or bothersome, a hearing assessment is often a helpful first step: How hearing tests work in Canada.

If you also have hearing loss, hearing support (including hearing aids) can reduce tinnitus awareness for some people.

This article is general information only and is not medical advice. If tinnitus is sudden, one-sided, pulsatile, or comes with dizziness or hearing loss, seek medical assessment.

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