Tinnitus Treatment

To properly treat tinnitus, a physician must first determine what is causing it. Tinnitus may be a symptom of a separate illness. If tinnitus is caused by a health condition, the physician will take the necessary steps to treat the underlying problem. Most of the time, tinnitus is caused by damage to the hearing organ. If tinnitus symptoms become too severe or interfere with hearing, there are a number of treatment options available. Hearing loss can make tinnitus worse. Protecting hearing and avoiding loud noises is very important.

Noise Suppression:

• Hearing aids: Hearing aids help reduce symptoms. They are especially effective in sufferers with hearing problems.
• White noise machines: White noise machines produce soothing natural sounds such as rushing waterfalls. These noises mask the tinnitus and help sufferers fall asleep. Sound pillows with built-in speakers can be very helpful. Many sufferers turn on soft music or air fans when trying to sleep.
• Sound therapy: Sound therapy uses music with alternating tones to help rehabilitate the ear. This does not stop tinnitus but the high-pitch ringing in the ear turns into a more tolerable low-pitch sound.

Nutrition & Lifestyle:

• Avoiding irritants: Avoiding caffeine, nicotine and alcohol can also reduce symptoms. Avoiding aspirin has also been reported to be helpful.
• Stress management: Most people with tinnitus find that stress makes their symptoms worse. Relaxation techniques, yoga and other forms of exercise and biofeedback can help manage stress and reduce symptoms.
• Vitamin supplements: Some sufferers have found that living healthy and avoiding irritants help relieve tinnitus symptoms. Some individuals take ginkgo biloba, zinc, vitamins or melatonin. It is best to consult a physician before taking supplements.

Electrical Stimulation:

• Cochlear implants: Electrodes are surgically placed in the inner ear. An implant then delivers a signal to the electrode and stimulates the auditory cortex. This procedure is very invasive and only used in very severe cases with profound hearing loss.

Psychological:

• Cognitive behavior therapy: Many sufferers have reported that this therapy helps them cope with the symptoms of tinnitus.