What Is Tinnitus? Understanding the Ringing in Your Ears

Written By Aurilink

Do you hear a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in your ears—even when everything around you is quiet?

That sensation is called tinnitus, and it affects over 50 million adults in the U.S. While it’s incredibly common, it’s often misunderstood—and too many people simply “learn to live with it” when real relief is possible.

At Aurilink Tinnitus & Hearing Care in Marietta, we specialize in helping people understand and manage tinnitus with the latest tools and technology.

What Does Tinnitus Sound Like?

Tinnitus can sound different for everyone. Common descriptions include:

  • Ringing

  • Buzzing

  • Hissing

  • Whistling

  • Roaring

  • Clicking or chirping

It may be constant or come and go. Some people only notice it at night or in quiet settings. Others experience it all day long.

Types of Tinnitus

There are two main types of tinnitus:

Subjective Tinnitus

This is the most common type. Only you can hear the sound. It’s often linked to hearing loss or damage to the inner ear.

Objective Tinnitus

This is rare, but in some cases, a doctor may actually hear the sound during an exam. It may be caused by muscle contractions, blood vessel issues, or middle ear problems.

What Causes Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a symptom—not a condition in itself. Common causes include:

  • Hearing loss (especially age-related or noise-induced)

  • Earwax blockage

  • Loud noise exposure (concerts, construction, headphones)

  • Head or neck injuries

  • Certain medications (called ototoxic drugs)

  • Jaw problems (TMJ)

  • High blood pressure or circulatory issues

  • Stress and anxiety

Sometimes, the exact cause isn’t clear—but that doesn’t mean treatment isn’t possible.

How Tinnitus Affects Your Life

For some, tinnitus is a minor annoyance. For others, it interferes with:

  • Sleep

  • Focus and concentration

  • Emotional wellbeing

  • Social interactions

  • Quality of life

The good news? You don’t have to live with it.

Tinnitus Relief Is Possible

At Aurilink, we offer customized tinnitus evaluations and support. Depending on your needs, treatment may include:

  • Hearing aids with built-in tinnitus masking

  • Sound therapy to retrain your brain

  • Cognitive behavioral support to manage the emotional side of tinnitus

  • Lifestyle adjustments (diet, sleep habits, stress reduction)

  • Medical referrals if your tinnitus has a physical cause

Many of our patients find significant relief when they finally address their tinnitus head-on—with the right support.

Next Steps: Schedule a Tinnitus Consultation in Marietta, GA

If ringing in your ears is becoming hard to ignore, we’re here to help. At Aurilink Tinnitus & Hearing Care, we’ll take time to understand your experience and create a plan that works for you.

📞 Call 770-509-0207 to schedule your appointment

📍 Located on Sandy Plains Rd in Marietta, GA

🕒 Monday–Thursday: 9 AM – 5 PM | Friday: 9 AM – 1 PM

Don’t Ignore the Ringing—Let’s Talk About It

Tinnitus may not have a one-size-fits-all cure, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with it forever. Let’s figure it out together.

Aurilink https://www.aurilink.org
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Ringing in Your Ears? Get Tinnitus Relief in Marietta, GA