Tinnitus affects millions of people worldwide and is commonly described as a persistent ringing, buzzing, or humming sound in the ears. For some, tinnitus is merely a minor inconvenience, whereas for others the symptoms can significantly impact their quality of life.
While there is no definitive cure for tinnitus , various management techniques are available, with hearing aids recognised as an effective tool for managing the condition. We will explore how hearing aids help alleviate tinnitus, the mechanisms behind their success, and the signs that suggest you should consult an audiologist for tinnitus management.
What brings on tinnitus? Although tinnitus is often referred to as a disease, it isn’t a disease at all. Tinnitus is a condition that occurs as a result of various conditions, including hearing loss, ear injuries, exposure to loud noises, or even stress and anxiety.
The noise associated with tinnitus is subjective, meaning only the affected individual can hear it. This sound can range from mild and intermittent to severe and constant, often interfering with concentration, sleep and a person’s overall well-being.
One of the most common causes of tinnitus is hearing loss . When hearing diminishes, the brain compensates by amplifying certain frequencies, which can inadvertently result in tinnitus. Therefore, addressing the root cause of hearing loss is key to managing tinnitus effectively, and this is where hearing aids come into play.
Can hearing aids help tinnitus? If you’re wondering whether hearing aids can help manage your tinnitus, the answer is a resounding yes! Hearing aids are small electronic devices designed primarily to improve hearing. They amplify external sounds, making it easier for people with hearing loss to engage with their surroundings.
But how do hearing aids help with tinnitus? Each hearing aid is different and its features depend on the make, model and size. Here’s a breakdown of the mechanisms:
Amplifying background sounds For individuals with hearing loss, the absence of sound can exacerbate their tinnitus. The brain can choose to focus on the lack of stimulation in the absence of external stimuli. Hearing aids amplify ambient sounds, such as conversation, nature sounds or background noise, which can mask the internal ringing or buzzing. This effect, known as sound masking, helps reduce the prominence of tinnitus.
Tinnitus-specific features Many modern hearing aids come equipped with tinnitus management features. These features include built-in sound generators that produce soothing noises, such as white noise, pink noise or ocean waves. These sounds can be customised to the individual’s preferences, helping distract the brain from tinnitus and providing a sense of relief.
Restoring auditory input Hearing loss reduces the amount of sound signals reaching the brain, which can cause neural pathways to misfire and produce tinnitus. By restoring auditory input through amplification, hearing aids can rebalance the auditory system. This process, known as auditory enrichment, helps the brain focus on meaningful sounds rather than tinnitus.
Enhancing communication One of the frustrating aspects of tinnitus is its impact on communication. Struggling to hear amidst the noise in your head can be isolating. Hearing aids amplify speech, making conversations clearer and helping you stay engaged in social situations. This improved communication reduces feelings of isolation and improves mental well-being.
Choosing the right hearing aid for tinnitus Not all hearing aids are equally effective in managing tinnitus, so selecting the right one is essential. Look for devices with built-in tinnitus masking options, such as sound therapy features that produce soothing sounds like white noise or nature sounds. The ability to customise your devices is another important factor, as being able to personalise settings ensures the device meets your specific requirements.
When should I see someone about my tinnitus? While tinnitus is common and not always a cause for concern, certain signs suggest it’s time to consult an audiologist for advice. Persistent or worsening tinnitus lasting longer than a few weeks should be evaluated, as should any accompanying loss in hearing capacity. This may indicate underlying hearing loss that could be alleviated to reduce tinnitus symptoms.
Sleep disturbances caused by tinnitus can affect overall health, and sound therapy through hearing aids can help promote better rest. Emotional distress, such as frustration, anxiety, or depression linked to tinnitus, is another reason to seek help, as audiologists can provide support and resources.
Unilateral tinnitus, meaning it occurs in only one ear or alongside symptoms like dizziness, vertigo or hearing loss, may signal a more serious condition requiring prompt attention. Similarly, a sudden onset of tinnitus, especially after an injury or exposure to loud noise, needs immediate evaluation to prevent potential long-term damage.
What to expect at your audiology appointments at Hampstead Visiting our audiologists for tinnitus management involves a thorough evaluation of your auditory health. The process typically begins with a discussion of your medical history, lifestyle and specific tinnitus symptoms.
The audiologist will ask questions about when the tinnitus started, its severity, and any factors that may contribute to or worsen the condition. These details are vital for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
A hearing test is carried out to determine whether hearing loss is a contributing factor. This involves listening to sounds of varying frequencies and volumes to assess your hearing range and pinpoint any deficiencies. We may use specialised tools to measure the pitch and volume of your tinnitus, which helps them develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.
Based on the results, Hampstead Hearing Clinic will provide treatment recommendations. This could include hearing aids with tinnitus-specific features, sound therapy, counselling or a combination of approaches.
Our goal is to reduce the impact of tinnitus and improve your overall quality of life.
How to live with tinnitus While tinnitus can be challenging, it doesn’t have to control your life. Hearing aids offer a practical and effective way to manage symptoms, by improving hearing and quality of life. Combined with other strategies, such as sound therapy, relaxation techniques and lifestyle changes, they can help you regain a sense of normality.
If you’re experiencing tinnitus, don’t hesitate to seek help. Our audiologists can guide you through the process, offering solutions tailored to your unique needs. With the right tools and support, managing tinnitus is not just possible – it’s achievable! Book your appointment with Hampstead Hearing Clinic and get on the path to better hearing today.
