Tinnitus - What is it and How Can it be Treated?

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus, also known as ringing in the ears, is a sensation of hearing a ringing, buzzing, or humming sound in one or both ears. It is not a disease, but rather a symptom of something else going on in the body. Tinnitus can be a sign of an underlying condition such as an ear infection, an injury, or even a side effect of certain medications. It can also be caused by age-related hearing loss.

What Are the Symptoms of Tinnitus?

The most common symptom of tinnitus is a ringing, buzzing, or humming sound in one or both ears. Some people may also experience a sensation of pressure in their ears, or even a feeling of fullness. Other symptoms can include hissing, clicking, whistling, and roaring sounds.

How is Tinnitus Diagnosed?

Tinnitus is usually diagnosed by a health care provider after taking a medical history and performing a physical exam. The provider may also order hearing tests to rule out any hearing loss that may be contributing to the tinnitus. Imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, may be ordered to look for any underlying issues or abnormalities.

What Are the Treatment Options for Tinnitus?

Tinnitus can often be managed with lifestyle changes, such as avoiding loud noises or reducing stress. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help reduce the symptoms. In more severe cases, sound therapy or hearing aids may be used to reduce the sound of the tinnitus.

Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT)

Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) is a form of sound therapy that can help reduce the symptoms of tinnitus. TRT works by retraining the brain to focus on more natural sounds instead of the tinnitus. It typically involves the use of low-level background noise, such as white noise, to help mask the sound of the tinnitus.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that can help people manage the stress and anxiety associated with tinnitus. CBT can also help reduce the perception of tinnitus by teaching patients to focus on other activities or to distract themselves from the sound. In some cases, CBT may be used in combination with sound therapy to reduce the severity of the symptoms.

What Is the Outlook for People With Tinnitus?

The outlook for people with tinnitus can vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the symptoms. Treatment options such as sound therapy, hearing aids, medications, and psychotherapy can help reduce the symptoms and improve quality of life. It is important to talk to a health care provider to determine the best treatment plan for each individual.