3 Myths about Tinnitus

Via Widex

Tinnitus is described as the ringing or buzzing inside your ears. Tinnitus is a condition that is annoying at best, and debilitating at its worst – but there are ways to make it better. Here are some of the misconceptions about tinnitus, and the facts you need to know.

MYTH: There is nothing that can be done about my tinnitus.
FACT: Many people come to see us about their tinnitus. Here are some proven ways to help your symptoms:

• Tinnitus Sound Therapy: An important element in tinnitus management is sound therapy. Amplified sound from hearing aids, environmental influences, or noise generators can help minimize the contrast of the ringing in your ears to the sound of your therapy.
• Tinnitus Counseling: Assessment and counseling with a licensed Audiologist trained in managing tinnitus can help determine the cause of your tinnitus and minimize the impact it has on your life. The effects of tinnitus can be minimized with counseling and sound therapy.
• Relaxation Exercises: Stress can make tinnitus worse. Easier said than done, try limiting stressors in your life. Read a book, go for a walk, or practice breathing exercises.

MYTH: There are pills that will cure my tinnitus.
FACT: Some companies will try to point you to a miraculous cure for your tinnitus, but very little research has proven this to be true.

MYTH: Tinnitus and hearing loss are not linked.
FACT: Many people with tinnitus will also have hearing loss. In fact, a recent study revealed out of 123 people with tinnitus surveyed, only one participant did not have hearing loss!

Although common in our profession, tinnitus is a topic that cannot be addressed with a simple solution. Rather, as your hearing care professional, we are tasked with investigating our patients’ conditions and making educated decisions on the best treatment plan for you.