How is Tinnitus Best Treated

About one in five people with tinnitus experience symptoms that affect their quality of life and overall health. Tinnitus can present as a constant or intermittent sound in one or both ears. Tinnitus lasts longer than six months, it’s important to consult an audiologist for a thorough evaluation before starting any treatment. An audiologist can help you understand tinnitus and its underlying causes, which will be essential in guiding your treatment plan. But how is tinnitus best treated?

Determining the Cause

Naturally, treating tinnitus often comes down to treating the root cause. Let’s take a look at the most common factors for developing the symptom:

• Noise-induced hearing loss: Tinnitus often develops from noise-induced hearing loss, which can result from prolonged exposure to loud sounds at work or during concerts without hearing protection. An audiologist can assess your hearing and determine if this is a contributing factor. Unfortunately, this type of tinnitus may be permanent, though there are ways to manage it.
• Certain health conditions: Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders and multiple sclerosis can also contribute to tinnitus, so managing these health issues is important.
• Earwax buildup: Sometimes, tinnitus is simply caused by excess earwax. Once it is removed, symptoms may disappear.
• Medications: Some medications, including certain pain relievers, antibiotics and diuretics, have been linked to tinnitus. It’s essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor.

Sound Machines

Sound machines operate in a similar way to sound masking devices, but they are usually used on a temporary basis. These machines are customized for each individual and can help the brain learn to pay less attention to tinnitus symptoms, leading to long-lasting improvements. Using a sound machine from time to time can reduce the noises associated with tinnitus. Studies have shown that sound machines are often more effective in treating tinnitus than regular white noise or sound masking, as they allow the brain to adjust how it interprets sounds.

Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT)

Tinnitus retraining therapy is an effective method for managing tinnitus symptoms. This therapy combines two main components: sound therapy and counseling. In sound therapy, soothing sounds are used to help mask the ringing or buzzing associated with tinnitus. The counseling portion helps individuals understand their symptoms and develop strategies to cope with it emotionally. If you are experiencing tinnitus, talk with your audiologist. They can give you an in-depth understanding of what TRT is and how it will work.

Hearing Aid with Masking Feature

Hearing aids equipped with a masking feature can effectively help people cope with both hearing loss and tinnitus. These modern devices not only enhance sound clarity but also produce gentle background noise designed to cover up the annoying ringing or buzzing sensations linked to tinnitus. Overall, hearing aids with a masking feature provide a practical solution for managing both hearing challenges and tinnitus symptoms.

While there is currently no definitive cure for tinnitus, many individuals find that their symptoms become less bothersome over time, particularly with appropriate stress management and sound therapy. If you want to learn more about tinnitus schedule an appointment with an audiologist.