@85dB T
I am sorry to burst your bubble but that is absolutely correct. Most tinnitus sufferers know more about tinnitus than the majority of ENT doctors. The truth and stark reality is this:
ENT doctors are physicians not tinnitus specialists. They know about the anatomy of the Ear, Nose and Throat. If there is an underlying medical problem associated with these organs that is causing the tinnitus, usually they will be able to treat it medically or surgically and I believe most will be able to do this well, as this is their area of expertise. However, when it comes to tinnitus, most have never experienced it and those that have probably have it mild. Therefore, they tend to give the wrong advice when telling a patient with "noise induced" tinnitus which is often severe. Continue using headphones as long as the volume is low and go to concerts you're safe as long as you use earplugs.
Many people give a sentimental reverence to ENT doctors and other physicians for having medical qualifications and Phds which they may well deserve, in the field of Audiovestibular medicine, but this does not make them a tinnitus expert or even having a deep understanding of the condition. My ENT consultant has a Phd in Audiovestibular medicine and is someone I have a lot of respect for and have a good rapport with. She once told me that I know more about tinnitus than her - for the simple reason she said, having never experienced it.
When it comes to tinnitus particularly Noise induced, and there is no underlying medical problem causing it, a patient should be referred to an Audiologist or Hearing Therapist that specialises in Tinnitus and hyperacusis management. Many but not all, were either born with tinnitus or acquired it at some time in their life. They will have a deeper understanding of tinnitus and know how it affects a person's mental and emotional wellbeing. This can be particularly helpful when giving a patient tinnitus counselling. Unless a person has tinnitus they cannot understand it or have any knowledge of how it affects a person.
Michael