I have had tinnitus for almost twenty years.  The first year was
pretty difficult, but I found an understanding audiologist and with
the help of a masker that she fitted for me, I was able to get back to
a normal life.  Since then, my tinnitus has flared up on occasions and
there have been some difficult stretches.  However, in each case I was
able to adjust; in fact, I haven't used my masker much in the last
decade or so.

About a month ago, I started noticing momentary spikes or surges-a
loud burst of noise that lasts for no more than a second or two.  At
first I questioned whether this noise burst was real, or merely a
figment of my imagination.  However, I continue to have them,
generally when I'm fairly tired and start drifting off or upon waking
up

My first thought was that this must be another variation of my
tinnitus, but I'm concerned that something else might be happening.
Anyone else have this sensation, or may know whether this is tinnitus
or something else?

Any information would be much appreciated.

Pete