What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound source is present. It can show up differently from person to person. Some people describe it as a high-pitched ringing, while others hear a low hum, buzzing, hissing, clicking, or even a pulsing sound that follows the rhythm of their heartbeat. It may affect one ear or both, come and go throughout the day, or feel louder in quiet environments, especially at night when there's less background noise to mask it.
Tinnitus is a symptom, not a condition in itself. That means it's often a sign that something else is going on, whether that's noise-induced hearing loss, age-related hearing changes, ear pressure issues, earwax buildup, or other contributing factors. Understanding what's driving your tinnitus is the first step toward managing it effectively.
What Causes Tinnitus?
Tinnitus can stem from a wide range of causes, and sometimes more than one factor is at play. Common contributors include:
Hearing loss — The most frequent underlying cause. Even mild hearing loss that hasn't been formally identified can make tinnitus more noticeable, as the brain compensates for reduced input from the ears.
Noise exposure — Prolonged or sudden exposure to loud sounds can damage the tiny hair cells in the inner ear, leading to both hearing loss and tinnitus.
Ear pressure changes — Congestion, sinus issues, allergies, and Eustachian tube dysfunction can all create pressure imbalances that trigger or worsen tinnitus symptoms.
Earwax buildup — A blockage in the ear canal can affect how sound is processed and contribute to tinnitus.
Medications — Certain medications — including some pain relievers, antibiotics, and diuretics — are known to affect the auditory system and may cause or intensify tinnitus in some individuals.
Stress and sleep deprivation — Tinnitus is often more intrusive when you're tired or under stress. These factors don't cause tinnitus, but they can significantly affect how loud or disruptive it feels.
How We Can Help
There is currently no universal cure for tinnitus, but there are proven, effective ways to manage it — and the right approach starts with understanding your specific situation. At The Hills Hearing Center, Geovany Gamez, HIS, takes a thorough, individualized approach to tinnitus care.
Tinnitus Assessment
Your first visit will include a comprehensive evaluation to better understand your tinnitus — when it started, what it sounds like, how it affects your daily life, and what may be contributing to it. We'll review your health history, medications, and any patterns you've noticed, such as seasonal flare-ups or times of day when symptoms feel worse.
Hearing Evaluation
Because tinnitus and hearing loss so frequently go hand in hand, a thorough hearing evaluation is an important part of the process. We'll measure your hearing thresholds and identify any degree of hearing loss that may be making your tinnitus more pronounced.
Sound Therapy
Sound therapy is one of the most widely used and effective approaches for managing tinnitus. By introducing gentle background sounds — whether through a dedicated sound therapy device, hearing aids with built-in tinnitus features, or simple environmental sound enrichment — we can reduce the contrast between tinnitus and silence, making it far less intrusive over time.
Counseling and Ongoing Support
Living with tinnitus can be frustrating, and we don't believe in a one-appointment-and-done approach. We'll work with you to develop practical strategies for daily management, help you identify triggers, and adjust your care plan as needed. Our goal is to get you to a place where tinnitus is something you're aware of rather than something that controls your day.
When Should You Get Your Tinnitus Evaluated?
Many people put off seeking care because they assume tinnitus is something they just have to live with. While it's true that some cases improve on their own — particularly those tied to temporary illness or congestion — persistent tinnitus deserves attention. We recommend scheduling an evaluation if:
- Your tinnitus has lasted more than a few weeks
- It's affecting your sleep, focus, or mood
- It seems to be getting louder or more frequent over time
- You've noticed any changes in your hearing alongside it
- You experience tinnitus only in one ear
Seek prompt care if your tinnitus is accompanied by sudden hearing loss, dizziness or vertigo, ear pain, drainage, or a pulsing sound that matches your heartbeat — these symptoms can indicate conditions that need more immediate attention.
Tinnitus Care in Bee Cave, TX
At The Hills Hearing Center, we serve patients throughout Bee Cave, Lakeway, Westlake Hills, Dripping Springs, Spicewood, and the greater Austin area. Whether you've been dealing with tinnitus for years or you're just starting to notice symptoms, we're here to listen — and to help.
Ready to take the first step?
Call us at (512) 294-2229 or schedule your consultation online.