Tinnitus Treatment Options
Understanding Tinnitus
Tinnitus refers to the perception of ringing, buzzing, whooshing, or other noises in the absence of an external sound source. This condition is typically experienced only by the person affected and can result from a variety of causes.
Treating the Cause of Tinnitus
Tinnitus is often a symptom of an underlying condition rather than a standalone issue. Effective treatment depends on identifying the root cause, the severity of the symptoms, any associated conditions like hearing loss, and the impact on daily life.
Common Causes of Tinnitus
- Hearing loss
- Exposure to loud noises
- Earwax buildup or blockage
- Abnormal bone growth in the ear (otosclerosis)
- Meniere’s disease
- Head or neck injuries
- Benign tumors of the cranial nerve (acoustic neuroma)
- Medication side effects
- Aging
- Vascular disorders
- Stress or depression
To determine the cause of tinnitus, your hearing specialist will perform a thorough medical history review and examination.
Don't suffer in silence, we can help.
Available Treatments for Tinnitus
Treatment options for tinnitus vary depending on its cause and the individual’s specific needs. The goal is to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
Sound Therapy
Sound therapy, also known as acoustic therapy, uses external sounds to help the brain re-focus and reduce the emotional response to tinnitus. This can include white noise machines, nature sounds, or other therapeutic sound sources.
Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are an effective solution for many individuals with tinnitus, even if they don’t have significant hearing loss. Many modern hearing aids include tinnitus-masking features that generate soothing sounds to block out tinnitus and provide relief.
Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT)
TRT, also called habituation therapy, combines sound therapy with counseling to help the brain reclassify tinnitus as a neutral sound. This reduces its emotional impact. Behavioral therapy may also be included to address stress, depression, or anger associated with tinnitus.
Ongoing Maintenance and Support
After treatment, managing tinnitus often requires continued care, such as addressing associated health conditions, regular check-ins with your specialist, or ongoing sound and behavioral therapies. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress can also support long-term relief.
If you’re experiencing tinnitus, a tailored approach to diagnosis and treatment can help reduce its impact and improve your overall well-being.
