Why you keep hearing the same tune in your head
Do you hear music that isn’t really playing? It could be musical ear syndrome. Here’s how you can manage it.
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Tinnitus is a common condition most of us experience at some time or other. When we talk about tinnitus, it’s usually associated with a buzzing, ringing, or humming in your ears. A less well-known type of tinnitus is musical ear syndrome, often described as ‘musical hallucinations’.
People with musical ear syndrome hear fragments of music that aren’t playing. It’s usually a familiar tune from their childhood or youth and it feels very real. Sometimes there are a few musical pieces which occur in a set order. When you first experience this, it’s likely that you’ll believe there’s really music playing. When it becomes obvious there isn’t, it can be confusing and frightening.
Noise exposure, ear infections, jaw alignment issues, and hearing loss can trigger all types of tinnitus. Some medications can cause problems too, so it’s worth chatting to your doctor if you think this is a possibility. For some, it is a one-off or occasional occurrence, while for others, it’s ongoing.
Key points
Tinnitus is usually associated with a buzzing, ringing, or humming in your ears. It’s a common condition most of us experience at some time or other.
There are effective ways to manage all forms of tinnitus, including the musical kind. Distracting yourself will help to train the brain to ignore the sound.
There are effective ways to manage all forms of tinnitus, including the musical kind. Distracting yourself will help to train the brain to ignore the sound.
Improve sleep: If you’re finding sleep difficult, play relaxing sounds at soft levels when you go to bed. Play whatever suits your tastes, but Australian composer, Tony O’Connor, specialises in relaxing music. Others swear by Sea and Silence by Deuter. Avoiding stimulants like caffeine and alcohol may also help.
Relaxation techniques: Stress makes the symptoms more noticeable, which may make you more stressed. Try a regular yoga class or massage. Mindful breathing can help refocus your brain. Take a few moments to focus on your breathing. Imagine air travelling through your body. If you find your mind wanders, gently bring your attention back to your breath going in and out. Try it a few times a week to see an impact.
Hearing Aids: If your musical ear syndrome accompanies hearing loss, hearing aids will make outside noises louder, distracting from the tinnitus. Visit an audiologist to find out if a hearing aid would be right for you.
Apps: Using sound therapy apps like Sound Oasis, you can choose a range of relaxing and environmental sounds to relieve anxiety, improve concentration, and reduce the tinnitus symptoms.
That’s why it is so important to have your hearing checked at least once every three years. However, if you notice any changes in your hearing, it’s important to schedule a hearing check right away.
Hearing Australia offers free 15-minute hearing checks for adults and eligible pensioners pay $0 for fully-subsidised hearing aids* under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program.
Why trust your hearing to anyone else?
*Other services may attract fees. Conditions apply under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program (HSP)
