Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency help if tinnitus occurs with signs of a stroke, such as facial drooping, arm weakness, difficulty speaking, sudden severe imbalance, or a new severe headache.
Emergency care is also needed after a serious head injury or if you feel at risk of harming yourself.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek same-day urgent medical assessment for tinnitus with sudden hearing loss, especially if hearing changed over hours or a few days.
Early assessment matters because some causes of sudden hearing loss need prompt treatment.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a medical appointment soon if:
The sound beats in time with your pulse
Tinnitus remains mainly or entirely in one ear
You have new or worsening hearing loss
You also have persistent vertigo, ear discharge, or significant ear pain
The sound began after starting or changing a medicine
It is disrupting sleep, concentration, mood, or everyday life
The article also says
Brief, mild tinnitus after noise exposure may settle, but repeated episodes can signal harmful sound levels.
A hearing check is sensible if symptoms continue or recur.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Tinnitus. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.