Exploring the Various Treatment Options for Tinnitus

‍Tinnitus is an auditory sensation that can occur as a result of an injury to the ear, often as a result of being exposed to excessive noise or prolonged exposure to ringing sounds. Tinnitus — also known as “ringing in the ears” — is most common among those who are between the ages of 20 and 40. While it affects some people, it’s not something that everyone experiences. Research suggests that some people are more prone to experience it than others, but what exactly causes tinnitus is still unclear. Tinnitus can be extremely distressing and has a major impact on one’s quality of life. Fortunately, it isn’t usually permanent, and there are several tinnitus treatment options available if you have this condition. If you think you have tinnitus or if you notice your tinnitus getting louder or changing pitch, explore the various treatment options listed below:

Hearing Aids and Tinnitus Treatment Devices

Hearing aids can be extremely beneficial for tinnitus sufferers. Often, the parts of the ear that normally receive sound are damaged, causing a tinnitus condition. By using hearing aids, you can bypass the damaged areas and amplify sound in the ears. Hearing aids aren’t a long-term solution, but they’re a good option if you have hearing loss that’s mild to moderate in nature. There are hearing aids near Sanford, ME designed especially for tinnitus. The FDA has approved products that can reduce or mask tinnitus.

Patients should discuss their symptoms with their audiologist and decide which one is the best fit for them. Patients should also keep in mind that hearing aids don’t help tinnitus if it’s caused by hearing loss.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective method for treating many tinnitus symptoms, including tinnitus severity and hyperacusis, the perception of excessive volume in the ears. It can also be effective in treating depression and anxiety, which can often accompany tinnitus. Cognitive behavioral therapy is typically short-term and involves a number of sessions. The therapy usually focuses on the patient’s mental processes and how they might be affecting their tinnitus. By understanding how their thoughts and emotions are affecting their condition, patients can better gauge how they’re feeling.

Light Therapy

Light therapy is an established treatment method for managing tinnitus. The method — which often involves the use of a lightbox — involves gradually exposing the affected areas to a specific wavelength of light. Studies show that using light therapy can be effective in treating mild tinnitus and that it can be helpful for those who are in severe tinnitus. Light therapy is typically done in three phases. During the first phase, patients expose themselves to blue light. Belief holds that blue light has a calming effect on the brain and helps alleviate tinnitus symptoms. During the second phase, patients employ orange light and in the third phase, they use red light.

Deep Brain Stimulation

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a common way to manage tinnitus. It’s a surgical treatment that involves implanting a device that stimulates the brain to reduce tinnitus or help manage it. DBS is effective for those who have severe tinnitus or who have tried other treatment options without success. DBS can also help those who require medication; although the medication can help with tinnitus symptoms, it doesn’t quiet the ringing in the ears completely. Before a patient can undergo DBS, they first undergo a comprehensive evaluation to find out the extent of their tinnitus and to rule out any other underlying conditions that might be causing their symptoms. The patient then has their brain mapped so that the neurosurgeon can find a suitable target in the brain.

Nutritional Therapy

Nutritional therapy is a non-invasive treatment option that involves consuming specific dietary supplements and vitamins. Studies have shown that a combination of dietary supplements and vitamins can affect the nervous system, which could help alleviate some of the symptoms of tinnitus. Nutritional therapy is a non-invention treatment method that doesn’t require surgery. It’s used by many to manage tinnitus with no side effects or complications. While studies are ongoing to determine the best dietary supplements for tinnitus, it’s believed that certain nutrients, such as melatonin, zinc, and vitamin B12, might be beneficial for tinnitus sufferers.

Homeopathic Remedies

Homeopathic remedies are a natural complement to other tinnitus treatment methods. They’re available to take as a supplement or in a homeopathic tinnitus treatment kit designed specifically for the condition. Studies have shown that homeopathic remedies can help relieve tinnitus symptoms and manage the condition. There are several homeopathic tinnitus treatment options available. Some homeopathic remedies help to control the tinnitus waves, eliminate the hyperacusis, or reduce the stress levels of the patient. These include Regmatox and Tinnitus Control.

Conclusion

Tinnitus is an extremely common condition that affects an estimated 10-20% of the population. It’s often described as an “in your head” sound that can be perceived in one or both ears, though it can occur at any frequency. Luckily, there are several effective treatment options available for managing tinnitus. If you think you have tinnitus, or if you notice your tinnitus is getting louder or changing in pitch, explore the various treatment options listed above. Remember, tinnitus isn’t usually permanent, and there are many treatment options available to manage it.