This is called BILATERAL TINNITUS, which is what most people with tinnitus experience. Bilateral tinnitus can be caused by many different conditions, but they are usually conditions affecting either the whole body or without a large difference between sides, e.g. hypertension, hearing loss, thyroid disorders, poor circulation. 

This is called UNILATERAL TINNITUS, which is more rare than bilateral tinnitus. In the case of unilateral tinnitus, the cause can be one that doesn’t automatically affect the whole body or both sides, e.g. a build-up of ear wax in one ear, middle ear infection in one ear, or trauma to one ear or side of the head.

In some cases, unilateral tinnitus can be a sign of a more serious medical condition, therefore we recommend that you seek medical attention from a qualified ear-, nose- and throat-specialist (ENT specialist).

Tinnitus that has a rhythmic pattern, e.g. thumping, throbbing or whooshing on a beat, is known as PULSATILE TINNITUS. It has been described a little like hearing your heartbeat in your ears. This type of tinnitus is rarer. Depending on the cause of the pulsatile tinnitus (e.g. vascular disorders), treating the underlying condition may result in eradication of the tinnitus.

In some cases, pulsatile tinnitus can be a sign of a more serious medical condition, therefore we recommend that you seek medical attention from a qualified ear-, nose- and throat-specialist (ENT specialist).