About the topic
Tinnitus means hearing ringing, buzzing or other sounds without an outside source. It may affect one or both ears and come and go. An ear and hearing assessment can look for a cause and guide support if symptoms persist.
Practical care & comfort
- Try quiet background sound at bedtime if complete silence makes it more noticeable.
- Keep a regular sleep routine and try calming breathing or relaxation.
- Protect your ears from loud noise and continue activities you enjoy.
Symptoms & signs
- Ringing, buzzing, hissing or whooshing without an outside sound.
- Sounds in one or both ears that may be constant or intermittent.
- Sleep, concentration or mood affected by the noise.
When to speak with a clinician: Book a review if tinnitus keeps returning, gets worse or affects sleep, concentration or mood. Seek an urgent appointment if it beats with your pulse.
Food & nutrition
Nutrition supports general health rather than treating tinnitus. If caffeine affects your sleep, reducing it may help your sleep routine; broad food bans are not suggested. These food suggestions support general health; no special exclusion diet is suggested.
Foods & nutrition to follow
- Varied fruit and vegetables.
- Wholegrains, pulses and other protein foods.
Foods to limit or avoid
- Limit sugary drinks.
- Keep salty, fatty snacks occasional.
About this guide
General adult health information; it does not diagnose your symptoms or replace individual medical advice. Follow any plan your treating team has given you.
Further reading from the clinical sources used for this guide: