Tinnitus

by Moshe Ephrat, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Tinnitus refers to noises or sounds heard in the ears.  It may sometimes be described as ringing, buzzing, pulsatile, or hissing.  Tinnitus only refers to the symptom and does not describe a cause.  Many people have experienced tinnitus that can sometimes be brief and self limiting or at times be continuous and persistent.

Because tinnitus is a symptom rather than a condition itself, identifying the underlying cause is essential to finding the most effective relief.

Tinnitus Treatment Across NY, NJ, & TX

If you’re struggling with ringing, buzzing, or pulsing in your ears, our ENT physicians and audiologists offer comprehensive tinnitus treatment across New York, New Jersey, and Texas. Our specialists use advanced diagnostics and evidence-based therapies to help reduce tinnitus and improve your quality of life.

• Get Relief. Get Answers. Get Expert Tinnitus Care.
• Expert tinnitus evaluations from ENT physicians and licensed audiologists
• Advanced tinnitus treatment options, including sound therapy and hearing aids with tinnitus masking programs
• Personalized care plans tailored to your symptoms and lifestyle
• Cutting-edge diagnostic tools to determine the underlying cause
• Same-day or next-day appointments available in most locations

Find a location near you and schedule your tinnitus treatment consultation today.

Relief starts with one visit.

What Causes Tinnitus?

Tinnitus has a wide range of causes—some simple and temporary, others more complex. It is generally categorized into pulsatile and non-pulsatile tinnitus.

Pulsatile Tinnitus

This form sounds like a rhythmic pulsing or heartbeat. It is less common and often linked to changes in blood flow in the ear or nearby vessels. Possible causes include fluid in the middle ear, ear infections, high blood pressure, vascular abnormalities, blocked arteries, or tumors of the head and neck. Because pulsatile tinnitus can be associated with vascular changes, prompt evaluation is recommended.

Non-Pulsatile Tinnitus

Far more common, this type is not rhythmic. Causes include:

Age-related hearing loss

• Noise exposure
• Wax impaction
• Otosclerosis
• Meniere’s disease
• TMJ disorders
• Thyroid issues
• Ototoxic medications
• Head or neck trauma
• Acoustic neuroma

Most non-pulsatile tinnitus is subjective, meaning only the patient can hear it. Objective tinnitus—where the sound can be heard by a clinician—is very rare.

Tinnitus Evaluation

Seeing an ENT physician is the first and most important step. During your evaluation:

• The ear canals are examined and cleaned if necessary
• An audiogram (hearing test) is performed to determine whether hearing loss is present
• Additional imaging, such as an MRI, may be ordered if tinnitus is one-sided, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms
• This thorough assessment helps identify the underlying cause and guides the treatment plan.

Tinnitus Treatment Options

Because tinnitus stems from many possible causes, treatment is individualized. However, several therapies have been proven effective in reducing the impact of tinnitus.

• Hearing Aids with Tinnitus Maskers - Many modern hearing aids include specialized sound therapy programs designed to mask or reduce the perception of tinnitus—especially effective when tinnitus is associated with hearing loss.
• Standalone Tinnitus Masking Devices - These devices generate soothing background noise or therapeutic tones that help distract the brain from tinnitus.
• Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) - A structured program combining sound therapy with counseling to retrain how the brain interprets tinnitus.
• Medical or Surgical Management - If tinnitus is caused by a reversible condition—such as infection, fluid buildup, TMJ dysfunction, or wax impaction—treating that condition often brings significant relief.
• Lifestyle & Behavioral Strategies - Stress management, sleep improvements, noise protection, and reducing caffeine or alcohol can help reduce tinnitus intensity.
• Supplements & Medications - Many over-the-counter products claim to cure tinnitus, but none have scientifically proven results. Your ENT doctor can help guide you away from ineffective remedies.

Find a Tinnitus Specialist Near You

The Tinnitus physicians and audiologists at ENT Allergy & Associates provide comprehensive tinnitus evaluations and the most advanced, evidence-based treatment options to help you regain control of your hearing and comfort.

Schedule a tinnitus treatment consultation today at one of our locations across NY, NJ, PA, and TX.