Tinnitus · Ear Care

Not a diagnosis. This page is general information only and does not replace an examination or medical advice.

Tinnitus that beats in time with your pulse (pulsatile): ask for an urgent GP appointment.
Tinnitus with sudden hearing loss, weakness in the face, or a spinning sensation (vertigo), or tinnitus after a head injury: call 999 or go to A&E. Don't drive yourself.
Sudden hearing loss in one or both ears: urgent GP appointment or NHS 111.
Tinnitus in one ear only, or tinnitus that is constant, getting worse, or affecting your sleep, concentration or mood: see a GP. One-sided symptoms should be checked.

Try to relax — deep breathing or yoga may help.
Improve sleep: a bedtime routine and less caffeine.
Avoid things that make it worse, such as stress or loud background noise.
Avoid total silence: soft music or sounds (sound therapy / sound enrichment) can help. Tinnitus UK says sound therapy is safe, though evidence it works is limited.
Join a support group — talking to others with tinnitus may help.
Wax can sometimes contribute to tinnitus, so a check of your ears can be worthwhile.

Free helpline for people with tinnitus and their carers: 0800 018 0527, Monday–Friday 10am–4pm. Web chat, text and email are also available.

Free, confidential information on tinnitus: 0808 808 0123, Mon–Fri 8:30am–5pm, or text 07360 268 988.

Apps listed by Tinnitus UK (as reproduced in an NHS trust leaflet). None is a cure; some have in-app costs.

Oto, Quieten and MindEar — developed using NHS research and Tinnitus UK information.
Hearing aid makers' apps: ReSound Tinnitus Relief, Starkey Relax, Phonak Tinnitus Balance, Widex Zen.

Ask the clinic if your hearing aids have a built-in tinnitus feature.

Ruislip Ear Care · Cleaner Ears (Hayes) · Wembley Ear Clinic

Checked October 2026. If anything here differs from what your clinician tells you, follow your clinician.