Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external noise is present. People may describe it as ringing, buzzing, hissing, chirping, clicking, or roaring. Tinnitus itself is not a condition — it is a symptom of an underlying issue with the auditory or sensory system.
Tinnitus can have many possible causes, including:
Decreased sound tolerance refers to difficulty tolerating everyday sounds. It includes:
Common contributing factors include:
Depending on your results, treatment options may include:
Assessments are not covered by OHIP, but some private insurance plans may include partial coverage. Contact Envision Hearing for details on testing fees.
At Envision Hearing, our approach goes beyond a standard hearing test. Tinnitus and sound intolerance are often influenced by more than just the ears, and our assessment looks at the full picture. In addition to evaluating the auditory system, we also screen for sensory factors that may contribute to increased sound sensitivity. Because some tinnitus is affected by muscle and nerve input from other parts of the body, we also perform a physical examination of the jaw and neck to check for somatosensory tinnitus. This comprehensive approach helps us understand all possible contributors to your symptoms so we can provide accurate explanations and individualized recommendations.
