Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the head or ears when no external sound source is present. While often described as a persistent “ringing in the ears,” the experience is far more varied, encompassing a wide spectrum of auditory sensations. This phantom noise is not a disease itself but a symptom arising from issues within the auditory system, such as the inner ear, the auditory nerve, or the parts of the brain that process sound. The sound can be continuous or intermittent, varying in volume and pitch, and may be heard in one or both ears.
The Experience of Tonal Tinnitus (Continuous Sounds)
The most frequently reported sound is tonal tinnitus, characterized by a continuous sound with a distinct, sustained pitch. This classic “ringing” sensation is often likened to a tea kettle, a high-frequency whine, or a telephone dial tone. The pitch often clusters around the 8,000 Hertz (8 kHz) range, which is significantly higher than the highest note on a standard piano keyboard.
This continuous high-pitched tone is commonly associated with sensorineural hearing loss, particularly damage to the delicate hair cells in the cochlea. When these cells are damaged, they may spontaneously send signals that the brain interprets as sound. Other descriptions include a steady, single-note humming or a constant buzzing noise.
The sustained nature of tonal tinnitus makes it a constant presence in the background, often perceived as a pure tone. This consistent sound can be particularly intrusive in quiet environments where external noises do not mask the internal perception.
Variable and Broadband Sound Descriptions
Many people experience tinnitus as a less defined, broadband noise, or as intermittent, variable sounds, rather than a pure tone. These sensations lack a clear, sustained pitch and are described as noise-like or static. Common descriptions include a steady hissing, similar to air escaping from a tire, or a sound like electronic static or white noise.
A roaring sound, similar to distant machinery or the continuous whoosh of ocean waves, is another common non-tonal description. These broadband sounds may fluctuate in intensity, sometimes fading into the background and other times becoming overwhelmingly loud.
Other variable forms are characterized by intermittent or repetitive sounds, such as clicking, popping, or crackling. These sounds, often referred to as somatic tinnitus, can be caused by muscle spasms or mechanical issues in the middle ear or jaw joint.
Sounds Linked to Internal Body Rhythms
A distinct category is pulsatile tinnitus, defined by sounds synchronized with the body’s internal circulatory rhythm, usually the heartbeat. This form is described as a rhythmic whooshing, thumping, or pulsing sensation. The rhythmic nature can often be confirmed by checking the wrist pulse against the perceived beat.
The consistent rhythm often makes the sound louder and more noticeable when the heart rate increases, such as during exercise or stress. This phenomenon is caused by turbulent blood flow in vessels near the ear, which is then amplified and perceived as sound.
Pulsatile tinnitus frequently indicates a specific, identifiable vascular or circulatory source. Potential underlying causes include atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, or abnormalities in the blood vessels near the inner ear. Because this type of tinnitus may signal a treatable medical condition, its distinct rhythmic sound prompts a thorough medical investigation.