A Clear Guide to Unilateral Tinnitus
Consultant-Led Management of Unilateral Tinnitus
Hearing a sound in one ear can feel worrying, but unilateral tinnitus is often linked to local ear changes, hearing variation, or temporary irritation rather than serious disease. We recommend an urgent audiovestibular assessment if it starts suddenly and is accompanied by sudden hearing loss, persistent vertigo, facial weakness, or new neurological symptoms.
Tinnitus Affecting Just One Ear
An Overview of Unilateral Tinnitus
Unilateral tinnitus refers to the perception of sound in only one ear, without an external source. The sound may be described as ringing, buzzing, humming, or whistling, and it can be constant or intermittent. Because it affects a single ear, it often draws attention quickly and can feel more concerning than tinnitus heard on both sides.
This type of tinnitus is commonly linked to differences in hearing between the ears, localised inner-ear changes, ear canal or middle-ear issues, or irritation of the auditory nerve. While it is frequently benign, the one-sided nature means it deserves careful Audiovestibular assessment.
Pinpointing the Cause
Diagnosing Unilateral Tinnitus
When to Get Checked
You should get assessed if unilateral tinnitus appears suddenly, follows an ear infection or head injury, or is accompanied by sudden hearing loss, ongoing vertigo, facial weakness, numbness, or changes in vision or speech. These features require prompt audiovestibular review to exclude significant inner-ear or neurological causes.
You should also seek assessment if the sound persists, becomes louder, or interferes with daily activities, sleep, or concentration, or if there is a noticeable hearing difference between ears. Early evaluation helps guide appropriate investigations and timely management.
How We Assess Unilateral Tinnitus
At Harley Audiovestibular Clinic, we begin with an in-depth, one-to-one consultation led by a senior audiovestibular consultant. Time is taken to understand why tinnitus affects only one side, exploring onset, pattern, triggers, and daily impact. We discuss hearing differences, ear pressure or pain, balance symptoms, neurological changes, medical history, medications, noise exposure, and any recent infections or injuries.
Using this information, we arrange targeted audiovestibular investigations. These may include detailed hearing assessment, middle-ear analysis, and specialised tests of inner-ear and auditory nerve function. Where appropriate, we recommend further imaging or medical tests, aiming to identify contributory factors, exclude significant pathology, and guide clear next steps.
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Specialist Care for Unilateral Tinnitus
Every Unilateral 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.