Self producing ear noises are common. Most of us will experience some ear noise at some point in our lifetime. Generally tinnitus is not considered to be anything too serious.  However, there are people who suffer tremendously with incessant tinnitus. In rare instances tinnitus, when accompanied with other symptoms, can indicate a serious medical development. 

People who work in noise will often experience tinnitus. In this instance the tinnitus is an early warning sign that some level of damage is being done to the hearing. If you notice ringing in your ears after being subjected to loud noise (e.g. from tools, machinery, music, firearms, etc.) you should be using proper hearing protection.

Tinnitus sufferers often describe the noises that they hear as sound like a high pitch whistle, or steam escaping. Other descriptors can include: the sound of high voltage wires; a humming sound; music; even a song with words. 

Hearing your heart beat is not considered to be true tinnitus. There is a vein that runs quite close to the ear, and at times people can hear their pulse. This is most noticeable when the ear is occluded usually when the head is on a pillow.

If you notice a sudden onset of tinnitus, associated with sudden onset of hearing loss in one ear, with or without dizziness, it is important to have your hearing assessed with the results forwarded to your family physician as soon as possible. Don’t wait – seek attention immediately!

Incessant tinnitus can be extremely stressful. Although there is no cure for tinnitus, there are techniques used to minimize the effects of the tinnitus. Some clinics offer Tinnitus Retraining Therapy.