Should My First Visit Be to ENT or AUD?

I'm middle-aged and have had mild tinnitus for several years, origin unknown. As a child, I did have in-office procedures to remove wax - I don't know if that relates. In the last year it's become a bit louder, and this spring louder still. In the past, I've dismissed visiting a professional, only to be told I have tinnitus, as it is my understanding that there is no cure.

The pitch and presence is now present enough that I'm getting a bit scared. Can I live like this? I'm sure that some of you know the feeling. I've decided to get diagnosed, if nothing else to rule out causes, learn more and perhaps gain some hope.

There are many audiology clinics and professionals out there, some specializing in tinnitus. And of course there are the ENT specialists. Which should I choose to visit first, and why? Thanks to all who respond.

 

My father-in-law has an increase in his tinnitus while at the same time has an increase in hearing loss. An audiologist can give you a hearing exam which might explain your increase. An ENT can order an MRI to rule out an acoustic neuroma. Sounds like it might be related to hearing loss at or about the same range as your tinnitus.

 

I'd see an ENT first, and they can take a look at your ears and see if there is some issues or problems, that may have come up. After all the proper exams/procedures, then possibly go and see an audiologist. They can help you with the hearing aids (if you choose to get 1), they can possibly help with T and maybe some tools, therapies that can help you cope with it.

 

I'd see an ENT. They may recommend seeing an Audiologist if you are diagnosed with T. An Audiologist can determine the frequency of the T and how to mask it. I've had it for years. I got used to it, but it took months. 11 years later (last December) I woke up one morning and it was much, much worse. I'm getting used to it again now and learning to live with it. I can still notice it, but my brain has learned to not focus on it as much. Good luck.