Tinnitus

Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is highly prevalent, often chronic and can negatively impact quality of life. In the U.S., it is estimated that 35-50 million Americans struggle with Tinnitus and for approximately 2 million people it can be severe or even debilitating. Many suffer from daily anxiety, depressive symptoms and sleep disorders.

Did you know? People with tinnitus may hear sounds similar to…

• Buzzing
• Ringing
• Wind
• Chirping
• Roaring

Groups with higher risk of tinnitus include:

• Seniors
• People frequently exposed to loud noises, such as farmers, hunters or those in industry
• Military personnel
• Those with Meniere’s Disease, an inner ear disorder that can affect hearing and balance
• Those with hyperacusis, which is extreme sensitivity to noise

For those with Tinnitus, it is crucial to benefit from professional advice on how to take control of and manage this common condition.

As the American Tinnitus Association states:

“There is currently no scientifically-validated cure for most types of Tinnitus. There are, however, treatment options that can ease the perceived burden of tinnitus, allowing patients to live more comfortable, productive lives.”

It is vital to know that treating hearing loss can reduce the severity of tinnitus symptoms. By hearing other sounds in their daily environments better, tinnitus or “head noise” can come to be more in the background, not foreground, providing significant relief to those in need. Think about it, when unwanted noises are most or all of what you hear, they can have more negative impact than if they are only one of many sounds, ideally pleasant ones, that you experience. In effect, more pleasant sounds may effectively “mask” unpleasant ones.

Given the challenges and complexity in properly managing tinnitus, it is strongly advised to see a hearing care specialist with extensive training and deep experience. Those with tinnitus DO have evidence-based treatment options and with dedicated effort, personalized care plans can substantively improve quality of life.

If you or a loved one have bothersome tinnitus, please see us soon for an expert consultation. As you will learn, there are reputable ways to hear better, reduce tinnitus symptoms, lessen associated stress and get compassionate counseling on daily management of this condition. While you may have heard or others may say that you need to “learn to live with it,” we can help you minimize tinnitus symptoms and experience precious sounds to the best of your ability.

Like fingerprints, each individual’s unique tinnitus profile requires personalized treatment options which may reduce negative impacts and improve quality of life. Earlier intervention is crucial and our trusted advice will provide a renewed sense of hope that more daily sounds can be precious, not bothersome.

While there are no magic cures, better hearing and healthy choices will serve you well. Please see us soon, you and your loved ones will be glad you did.