Ringing in the Ears (Tinnitus)

Emergencies

Yes	Do you have any of the following symptoms that require emergency treatment? Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

Tinnitus and:

• Severe headache
• Vision changes
• Loss of coordination or vertigo that prevents standing or walking
• Severe vomiting
• Signs of a stroke

Check Your Symptoms

If you answer yes to any of the following questions, click on the "Yes" in front of the question for information about how soon to see a health professional.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

If you have any of the following symptoms, evaluate those symptoms first.

• Tinnitus that occurs following a head injury: Go to the topic Head Injury, Age 4 and Older.
• Tinnitus that occurs with ear pain, drainage, or a fever: Go to the topic Ear Problems, Age 12 and Older.

Yes	Do you have any symptoms of nerve damage?
Yes	Do you have new tinnitus with other symptoms?
Yes	Have you had an injury to your ear?
Yes	Do you think your tinnitus may be caused by a medicine?
Yes	Have you had tinnitus for longer than 2 weeks?

Other Symptoms to Watch For

Do you have the following symptom?

• Earwax: Go to the topic Earwax.
• An object in the ear: Go to the topic Objects in the Ear.

If a visit to a health professional is not needed immediately, see the Home Treatment section for self-care information.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: February 13, 2008
Medical Review:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Donald R. Mintz, MD - Otolaryngology
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