Tinnitus Management

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the perception of sound such as ringing, buzzing, or whooshing when no external sound is present. It is usually only heard by the person experiencing it and can vary in intensity and frequency.

Understanding the Cause

Tinnitus is typically a symptom of an underlying condition rather than a condition itself. The approach to treatment depends on the cause, severity, any associated hearing loss, and how much it affects daily life.

Common causes of tinnitus include hearing loss, exposure to loud noise, earwax buildup or blockage, abnormal bone growth in the ear, Meniere’s disease, head or neck injuries, benign tumors of the cranial nerve, certain medications, aging, vascular disorders, and stress or depression.

To determine the underlying cause, your hearing care professional will complete a full medical history and a detailed ear examination.

Treatment Options for Tinnitus

Treatment depends on the cause and individual needs, but several approaches can help reduce symptoms and improve daily comfort.

Sound Therapy

Sound therapy uses external sounds to help the brain shift focus away from tinnitus. This can reduce the emotional impact of the condition and make it less noticeable over time.

Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are a common and effective option for tinnitus management, even when hearing loss is mild or not immediately noticeable. Many devices include built-in tinnitus masking features that help reduce the perception of ringing and provide relief throughout the day. These can also be used alongside hearing loss treatment when needed.