Julie Raney is a certified and licensed audiologist. She has a B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders and a Master’s Degree in Audiology from Idaho State University. She has worked as a clinical audiologist in Colorado since 2005. She specializes in hearing amplification for adults and delivers her services in both English and Sign Language.

What Causes Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a symptom, not a disease. It can result from various underlying causes, such as:

Prolonged exposure to loud noises
Age-related hearing loss
Blockages in the ear canal
Head or neck injuries
Ototoxic medications
Health conditions, such as TMJ disorders or Meniere’s disease

Identifying the cause is a critical first step in choosing the appropriate treatment plan.

Tinnitus Treatment Options

There are a range of treatment options for tinnitus. Here are some of the most common treatments to manage tinnitus and find relief.

1. Sound Therapy

Sound therapy involves creating a background noise that helps to mask or divert attention away from the tinnitus sound. This can be achieved through:

White Noise Machines: Devices that produce a steady, unobtrusive sound can help mask tinnitus noises.
Hearing Aids: Hearing aids not only amplify external sounds but can also include built-in sound generators for tinnitus relief.
Sound Masking Devices: These devices emit specific frequencies to help mask the tinnitus sound.

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a counseling approach that helps individuals manage their reactions to tinnitus by changing negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with the condition. It is highly effective in reducing tinnitus-related distress.

3. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT)

TRT is a more specialized form of therapy that aims to habituate the brain to the tinnitus sound, making it less noticeable and bothersome. This approach requires working with hearing health professionals and combines sound therapy with directive counseling.

4. Medications

While there’s no specific medication for tinnitus, certain drugs can help alleviate the associated symptoms, such as:

Antidepressants and Anti-anxiety Medications: These can help reduce the distress and anxiety that often accompany tinnitus.
Sleep Aids: If tinnitus disrupts sleep, a healthcare provider may recommend short-term use of sleep medications.

5. Lifestyle Changes

Modifying certain behaviors and aspects of daily life can lessen the intensity of tinnitus:

Stress Management Techniques: Stress often exacerbates tinnitus symptoms, so relaxation techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, and yoga can be beneficial.
Diet and Exercise: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can have a positive impact on overall well-being and potentially reduce tinnitus severity.
Protecting Your Hearing: Using ear protection in noisy environments and avoiding exposure to loud sounds can prevent tinnitus symptoms from getting worse.

6. Alternative Therapies

Some individuals also find relief through alternative treatments such as:

Acupuncture: An ancient practice that may help alleviate tinnitus symptoms by targeting specific points on the body.
Nutritional Supplements: There is anecdotal evidence that some nutrients like zinc, magnesium, or B vitamins could be beneficial, but more research is needed.

7. Tailored Sound Environments

Some individuals benefit from customized sound environments, such as notched music therapy, where music is altered to de-emphasize frequencies around the tinnitus pitch, potentially reducing its presence over time.

Hearing Aids for Tinnitus Management

Hearing aids are an effective treatment for individuals with tinnitus. By amplifying environmental sounds, hearing aids can help mask the internal noise generated by tinnitus, making it less prominent.

Some hearing aids come equipped with advanced features specifically designed for tinnitus relief, such as integrated sound generators that produce white noise or other soothing sounds. For many, the dual benefit of correcting hearing loss and reducing the perception of tinnitus can significantly enhance daily communication and overall quality of life.

Finding What Works for You

The effectiveness of any given tinnitus treatment can vary widely from person to person. A treatment plan is often most effective when tailored to your unique circumstances and underlying conditions that contribute to tinnitus.

Often, a combination of treatments is necessary to effectively manage tinnitus symptoms. For instance, sound therapy might be paired with CBT and lifestyle changes to tackle various aspects of the condition.

Visit Us To Explore Treatment Options

Tinnitus can be a challenging condition, but numerous treatment options can help. By working closely with us, you can find the best personal strategy to manage your symptoms. If you’re grappling with tinnitus, remember that you’re not alone. Visit us for more support and start exploring your treatment options.