Tinnitus: Ringing in the Ears
Tinnitus is a constant or intermittent ringing, roaring, clicking, hissing, or buzzing sounds in the ears or head, when no external noise source is present.
Many different conditions can cause tinnitus, including hearing loss, circulatory issues, and physical damage to the ear. The first step to determining the cause is a tinnitus evaluation. Finding the right treatment for ringing in the ears takes time and commitment.
Two Types of Tinnitus
Tinnitus can be caused by a variety of factors – from antidepressant medications to hearing loss to Meniere’s disease. There are two types of tinnitus:
- Objective Tinnitus: This type of tinnitus is something that an audiologist can hear and document during an examination.
- Subjective Tinnitus: The majority of people have tinnitus that only they can hear. This is known as subjective tinnitus, which may be caused by hearing loss, cerumen (wax) in the ear canal, or medications.
A tinnitus evaluation is the first step to determine which type of tinnitus is present.
Diagnosing Tinnitus
Because there are so many potential causes of tinnitus, searching for a diagnosis takes time. An audiologist will perform a hearing test and tinnitus evaluation. A full tinnitus evaluation will also identify the frequency/pitch of the tinnitus in both ears and start to determine what types of treatment may be beneficial. Before a final diagnosis is made, you may be referred for additional testing from other professionals who specialize in tinnitus (e.g. a dentist).
Types of Treatment for Ringing Ears
The best treatment for tinnitus will depend on the results of the tinnitus evaluation. Addressing any underlying medical issue identified during the evaluation is the first step. Additional tinnitus treatments often consist of a sound source and counseling component to help reclassify the tinnitus from ‘bothersome’ to ‘non-bothersome.’ Designer Audiology offers multiple tinnitus treatment options to incorporate into an individual’s lifestyle:
- Counseling: Jennifer Gans, Psy.D.’s Mindfulness Tinnitus Based Tinnitus Stress Reduction 8-week online program. Approximate cost: $225.
- DuEARity Tinearity G1: A behind-the-ear tinnitus white noise sound masker. Approximate cost: $1,650.
- Hearing Aids: A prescription device that treats hearing loss and also incorporates a sound generator signal. Approximate cost: $2,500. and up.
- Neuromod Lenire: A 12-week treatment plan that uses sound and tongue stilumation for 1-hour each day. Approximate cost: $4,971.
- Levo Medical Levo: A nighttime sound therapy using an iPod Touch and wired headphones. Approximate cost: $4,510.
If the ringing in your ears is interfering with your daily life, call Designer Audiology today at 301-854-1410.