TINNITUS OPTIONS TAILORED TO YOU!
General Overview of Tinnitus
What is Tinnitus? Tinnitus is a condition characterized by the perception of sound in the absence of an external auditory stimulus. People with tinnitus often describe the sound as ringing, buzzing, hissing, whistling, or clicking. These phantom noises can be constant or intermittent, and they may vary in pitch and intensity.
Types of Tinnitus:
Subjective Tinnitus: The most common type, where only the person experiencing it can hear the sound. It is usually linked to auditory and neurological reactions to hearing loss.
Objective Tinnitus: A rare type where the sound is audible to both the affected individual and others, often caused by vascular or muscular issues within the ear.
Causes of Tinnitus:
Hearing Loss: Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) or damage to the inner ear from exposure to loud noise.
Ear Infections and Diseases: Earwax buildup, otosclerosis, and Meniere’s disease.
Medications: Certain antibiotics, diuretics, and chemotherapy drugs.
Injuries: Head or neck injuries can affect the auditory nerves, inner ear, or brain functions related to hearing.
Health Conditions: High blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and thyroid problems.
Symptoms:
Perception of ringing, buzzing, hissing, or clicking sounds.
Possible hearing loss or sensitivity to sound (hyperacusis).
Difficulty concentrating or sleeping due to the noise.
Diagnosis: A thorough examination by a healthcare professional is required to diagnose tinnitus. This may include:
Hearing Tests: Audiometry to assess hearing acuity.
Medical History and Physical Examination: To identify potential underlying causes.
Imaging Tests: MRI or CT scans if a structural issue is suspected.
Treatment and Management: While there is no cure for tinnitus, several strategies can help manage the condition:
Hearing Aids: Can improve hearing and reduce the perception of tinnitus.
Sound Therapy: Using white noise machines or specialized ear devices to mask the tinnitus.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps patients cope with the emotional impact of tinnitus.
Medications: Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to reduce the distress caused by tinnitus.
Lifestyle Changes: Stress reduction techniques, healthy diet, and regular exercise.
Prevention:
Hearing Protection: Use earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments.
Volume Control: Keep personal audio devices at a safe volume.
Regular Hearing Checkups: Especially if you are at risk due to occupational noise exposure or other factors.
Understanding and managing tinnitus involves a combination of medical treatment, therapeutic support, and lifestyle adjustments. If you experience symptoms of tinnitus, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.
Dr. Marie’s on-demand tinnitus relief management program is here to help!
If visiting our office for an evaluation isn't feasible, or if you need expert guidance on your journey to alleviate tinnitus, Dr. Shannon Marie offers an extensive online counseling course. With years of clinical experience in successfully treating tinnitus, Dr. Marie's 9-week program provides flexible, on-demand counseling tips that fit into your schedule. Each session is designed to help you manage and reduce your tinnitus symptoms effectively. Click the image above to sign up today!