The ringing never stops. Even when nothing’s moving, there’s always some sound, buzzing, hissing, or ringing, and you’re the only one who can hear it. Treatment for tinnitus causes searches to increase as more people are affected by this ghostly sound effect.Â
Tinnitus, the perception of hearing a sound without an external source, afflicts 15% of the population, of whom 2.4% experience distress. You’re not alone in the experience, and more importantly, you’re not losing your mind. Being aware of what is happening within your hearing system and how to embrace tinnitus coping strategies may allow you to regain control of your day-to-day existence and reduce the stress this disorder causes.
Understanding Common Causes and Triggers
Treatment for tinnitus begins with the recognition of potential underlying causes. Increasing evidence suggests that some people with tinnitus have “hidden” hearing loss: damage to the auditory nerve that cannot be found with routine hearing tests. This discovery has revolutionized the way that medical professionals approach tinnitus diagnosis and treatment.
Primary tinnitus causes are:
- Noise exposure and age-related hearing loss damage
- Earwax, ear infections, or other blockages
- Some medications (especially heavy doses of aspirin or antibiotics)
- Head or neck injury to the auditory nerves
- Blood pressure issues and circulatory disorders
Tinnitus may be intermittent or persistent. Tinnitus may be long-term or cease once the disorder that caused it has resolved. Awareness that tinnitus can be temporary or long-term places realistic expectations on treatment and management strategies.
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Proven Coping Strategies and Treatment Options
Effective tinnitus coping strategies try to reduce distress rather than eliminate the sound. Treatments for tinnitus include pharmacotherapy, cognitive and behavioral therapy, sound therapy, music therapy, tinnitus retraining therapy, massage and stretching, and electrical suppression. Recent trials show good results in a number of approaches.Â
Evidence-based coping strategies are:
- Sound therapy through background noise, nature, or a computer-specific tinnitus app
- Cognitive behavior therapy to change negative tinnitus thoughts
- Counseling, along with sound therapy, is used in tinnitus retraining therapy
- Progressive muscle relaxation and meditation to decrease stress
- Exercise regularly to aid circulation and decrease stress hormones
Veterans treated through telehealth platforms for progressive management of tinnitus reported improved coping skills and were less bothered by the tinnitus. This indicates that effective treatment need not be done in person but can be modified according to your location and lifestyle.
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Most Important Questions to Ask Your Medical Providers
Consulting a professional about tinnitus requires knowing what tinnitus doctor questions to ask in order to ensure a complete assessment and treatment. Before treatment, a proper examination by an ENT physician/otolaryngologist and an audiologist should be done.
Have the following most important questions answered by your healthcare providers
- Do you follow best practice standards of tinnitus care as outlined by professional organizations?
- What specific tests would diagnose possible underlying causes?
- Do I need to consult an ENT specialist and audiologist for complete treatment?
- What are the options for treatment, and how long does it take to get better?
- Are there medications or supplements I should avoid that would worsen tinnitus?
Audiologists perform a special test of high frequency to assist in the measurement of the pitch and loudness of the tinnitus. Afterwards, the next step is matching sound to a frequency, which aids physicians in understanding more about how tinnitus is impacting you. The specialized testing offers important information for creating individualized treatment plans.
Treatment success for tinnitus relies on accurate diagnosis, realistic expectations, and an integrated plan that combines medical treatment with effective coping skills. While there is no cure for tinnitus, effective tinnitus coping strategies can significantly reduce distress and improve quality of life. Remember that tinnitus management is often a time-consuming process involving patience and perseverance.
If you suffer from chronic tinnitus, start by seeking appointments with both an ENT specialist and an audiologist for a thorough evaluation. Keep a record of your symptoms, triggers, and questions beforehand to make the most of your medical visits and begin your journey towards better tinnitus management.
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