Tinnitus and Hyperacusis Service

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the name for sounds heard ‘in the ears’ or ‘in the head’ which do not come from an external source. Tinnitus is extremely common, it is thought that around 30% of people experience tinnitus at some point and approximately 13% (over 1 in 8) of people are living with persistent tinnitus.

It can take many forms including buzzing, whistling and hissing. For some people it can be distressing. However, there are a number of management options that can significantly reduce the effects of tinnitus, some of these are discussed below.

Whilst we do not know the exact causes of tinnitus, we know that it is not an illness and that it may be linked to a number of factors including hearing loss, noise exposure, medication, or traumatic life experiences.

HM Queen Elizabeth II black and white
NHS Tayside Logo White
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

1926 - 2022