I've had permanent tinnitus for a couple months now, with only slightly poorer hearing in 8-9k. I've given up on headphones since they aggravate my tinnitus, but its probably just a mental thing, although I did find that closed headphones make the tinnitus appear to be louder because it blocks outside sounds and IEMs aggravate my TMJ. Most people here want completely silent PCs when listening to music, but I couldn't live without my clocks, pc fans, and air purifier in my room.
Like others have said, it could either be from allergies, TMJ, or loud noise. Some things that come to mind are those stupid "pep rallies" I used to have to go to during high school well over 100 db with the insanely loud music and high school kids screaming at the top of their lungs in a tiny reflections-galore basketball arena, operating chainsaws, lawnmowers, etc. as a kid without knowing to use ear protection, and accidentally listening to IEMs with the volume on full blast.
Last few times I went to the ENT I forgot to mention about ear cleaning, I assume he did not think my ears were in need of cleaning, but I want to try and get it done anyways. Is it completely safe?