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Ask the Audiologist

What is Tinnitus?
Are there any treatments?

It is important to understand the symptoms and causes of tinnitus.

By Kevin Kock, Au.D.
Audiology Consultants, P.C.

Tinnitus is commonly described as a ringing, buzzing, whooshing or hissing sensation in your ears, but the sound is not caused by an external noise. With more than 50 million Americans experiencing tinnitus, it is likely that you are someone you know are also experiencing tinnitus. This might be especially true if you were around a lot of loud sounds.

To determine how to best treat tinnitus, it is important to understand the symptoms and causes of tinnitus. In fact, there are several potential causes of tinnitus, including (but not limited) to the following: Exposure to loud noise, medication, hearing loss, middle ear diseases, trauma, balance disorders, and vascular disorders. While there is no official cure for tinnitus, tinnitus can be a sign that further testing is needed. As a result, it is important to talk to your primary care doctor or a doctor of audiology about your tinnitus.

Often evaluating for tinnitus, starts with a hearing evaluation. This evaluation is done by a doctor of audiologist (someone who is specifically trained for hearing diagnostics, hearing rehabilitation, and hearing devices).

Other options include the following:

1. Tinnitus Evaluation:

Because hearing loss often occurs with tinnitus, a tinnitus evaluation usually starts with a hearing test. If a patient is experiencing chronic and bothersome tinnitus, a full tinnitus evaluation can be conducted. At our practice, Audiology Consultants, this typically includes tinnitus pitch matching, tinnitus counseling, and recommendations for possible therapies.

2. Addressing the problem:

If tinnitus is due to earwax build up, medication or infection, treating the cause may alleviate symptoms. Usually, your primary care doctor or an ear nose and throat specialist will be needed for this type of appointment.

3. Hearing aids:

Hearing devices are incredibly helpful in treating tinnitus. Even if a hearing loss is not present, hearing aids can be equipped with tinnitus-masking features that help cover the tinnitus and offer relief from the unwanted noise.

4. White noise machines:

If tinnitus is not as severe or only experienced at nighttime, a white noise machine or oscillating fan may be ideal for helping patients find relief. White noise machines produce sound to help mask tinnitus symptoms. These tend to be low-cost options that can help patients find relief.

5. Tinnitus Management:

Some individuals need more specific therapy then the above. A tinnitus trained audiologist will use a combination of patient education, counseling, and sound therapies to help provide patients with the tools to better manager bothersome tinnitus.

With many people suffering from tinnitus, it is important to seek help. If you have concerns that you or a loved one have tinnitus, especially bothersome tinnitus, talk to your audiologist or your primary care doctor today!

Kevin Kock is an audiologist at Audiology Consultants, P.C.  For more information consult our ad in this publication for store locations and phone numbers.