A Clear Guide to Objective Tinnitus
Focused Care for Objective Tinnitus
Hearing a sound that others can hear too can feel unsettling, but objective tinnitus often relates to benign muscle or vascular activity near the ear. Urgent audiovestibular assessment is advised if it starts suddenly, is rhythmic with the heartbeat, worsens rapidly, or occurs with neurological symptoms, new hearing loss, or head injury.
Physiological Sound Sources
An Overview of Objective Tinnitus
Objective tinnitus is a rare form of tinnitus where the sound has a physical source within the body and, in some cases, can be heard by an examiner. It is often described as clicking, buzzing, or rhythmic noise and may arise from muscle activity, middle-ear movement, or nearby vascular structures rather than solely from the auditory system.
Unlike more common tinnitus, objective tinnitus reflects an underlying mechanical or physiological process. Muscle contractions around the ear, changes in blood flow, or middle-ear conditions can generate real sound that becomes audible. Identifying the exact source is essential, as management focuses on addressing the cause rather than treating the symptom perception alone.
Pinpointing the Cause
Diagnosing Objective Tinnitus
When to Get Checked
You should get assessed if objective tinnitus begins suddenly, becomes persistent, or produces rhythmic or clicking sounds that others can hear. New-onset following head injury, ear surgery, infection, or significant illness should prompt an audiovestibular review.
You should seek urgent assessment if the sound is pulsatile, rapidly worsening, or accompanied by hearing loss, dizziness, facial weakness, neurological symptoms, or severe headache. Early evaluation helps identify the physical source and guide appropriate investigations and management.
How We Assess Objective Tinnitus
At Harley Audiovestibular Clinic, assessment begins with dedicated time spent with a senior audiovestibular healthcare professional. We take a detailed history, focusing on the sound’s character, rhythm, triggers, and whether it can be heard externally. We explore ear symptoms, hearing changes, muscle activity, vascular factors, medical history, medications, and recent illness or injury.
Based on this consultation, we arrange targeted audiovestibular investigations. These may include a comprehensive hearing assessment, middle-ear analysis, and specific tests to observe muscle or vascular activity. Where appropriate, we advise further medical tests or imaging. Findings allow us to identify the physical source, exclude significant pathology, and guide clear, proportionate management.
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DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
Specialist Tests to Assess Hearing, Balance and Inner Ear Health
FAQS
Common Questions for Objective Tinnitus
Find answers to objective tinnitus, treatment options, and how our specialists can help. If you have any further queries, our team at Harley Street Audiovestibular Clinic is here and happy to help.
When Should You Seek Help?
Seek help if you experience any of the following:
The aforementioned pulsing or clicking sound.
Vertigo, or sudden hearing loss.
Tinnitus that is in sync with your heartbeat.
Weakness in your facial muscles.
Tinnitus that is making it difficult to sleep.
Tinnitus that is interfering with your daily life.
Harley Street AVM Can Help?
Trying to maintain a normal life and routine in the face of objective tinnitus can be difficult. The team at Harley Street AVM have many years of experience diagnosing and treating this vexing condition. It is in your interest to pay us a visit and to undergo a thorough hearing and audiological assessment.
Should we determine you are experiencing objective tinnitus, our medical team will recommend any further investigations and a treatment regimen, taking into account your specific circumstances and your current physical condition.
Harley Street Specialists in Hearing, Dizziness & Balance
Specialist Care for Objective Tinnitus
Every Objective Tinnitus case is different. Your consultant will create a tailored plan to address your specific symptoms and lifestyle – when it started, how it affects your day, and which tests and treatments are right for you.