Tinnitus is a problem that affects many people worldwide. As audiologists, we meet many people who want relief from the ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in their ears.
While there isn’t a perfect solution to make tinnitus completely disappear, there are ways to make it less bothersome. We’ll explain what can help and discuss the important link between tinnitus and hearing loss.
What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is when you hear noise in your ears or head, but there isn’t any external sound. This noise can be ringing, buzzing, hissing, clicking, or even music-like sounds. It can happen sometimes or all the time. It can be mild or very disruptive. Many people describe it differently. One thing in common is that it can be very annoying.
Tinnitus and Hearing Loss
One important thing about tinnitus is that it’s often connected to hearing loss. Many people with tinnitus also have some degree of hearing loss. This happens because of how the parts of our hearing system work together.
Inside our ears, tiny hair cells change sound waves into electrical signals that our brain understands as sound. When these hair cells get damaged from aging, loud noise, or other reasons, hearing loss can occur. The brain then reacts to this hearing loss, which often leads to tinnitus.
The Brain’s Response
When the brain notices less sound due to hearing loss, it tries to compensate by becoming more sensitive. This extra sensitivity can cause tinnitus. The brain might create phantom sounds to fill the gap left by lost sounds, leading to the sensation of ringing or buzzing.
How to Manage Tinnitus
Since tinnitus and hearing loss are closely linked, it’s important to manage tinnitus carefully.
Here are some ways that can help:
Hearing Tests and Diagnosis
The first step in managing tinnitus is getting a thorough hearing test and tinnitus evaluation from an audiologist. This helps identify any hearing loss and the extent of your tinnitus. A correct diagnosis is crucial for creating a treatment plan that works for you.
Hearing Aids
For many people with tinnitus and hearing loss, hearing aids can be very helpful. They not only improve your hearing but also provide sounds that can mask the tinnitus. By enhancing your hearing, hearing aids can reduce the brain’s focus on tinnitus.
Sound Therapy
Sound therapy uses external sounds to help with tinnitus. White noise machines, nature sounds, or special tinnitus masking devices can distract you from the tinnitus. These soothing sounds make the tinnitus less noticeable.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a type of therapy that can help manage tinnitus by changing how you react to it. It helps you handle stress and anxiety related to tinnitus, making it less severe. Many people find that this therapy also improves their overall mental health.
Lifestyle Changes
Making a few lifestyle changes can help with tinnitus. Avoid loud noises, drink less caffeine and alcohol, manage stress with relaxation, and exercise regularly. These simple changes can really improve how you feel with tinnitus.
Medications and Supplements
In some cases, doctors might suggest medications or supplements to reduce tinnitus symptoms. Always use these under medical supervision.
Tinnitus Evaluations in Abilene, TX
Tinnitus is a complex condition, often tied to hearing loss. It’s important to see an audiologist for a proper diagnosis and a treatment plan that fits your needs.
Tinnitus might not go away completely. These strategies can make it less disruptive and improve your quality of life. Remember, you don’t have to deal with tinnitus alone. There are effective treatments and support available.
Abilene Audiology Co. offers tinnitus evaluations in Abilene, TX. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!