Tinnitus

Understanding Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a condition characterized by the perception of ringing, buzzing, hissing, or other sounds in the ears or head without an external sound source. It can be a persistent and disruptive experience, affecting an individual’s quality of life. At the Center for Hearing and Balance, we are dedicated to helping you understand and manage tinnitus effectively.

Causes of Tinnitus

Tinnitus can arise from various underlying causes, which may include:

Hearing Loss: The most common association with tinnitus is hearing loss. As the auditory system struggles to process sound, it may generate internal noise that you perceive as tinnitus.
Exposure to Loud Noise: Prolonged or sudden exposure to loud noises can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear, leading to tinnitus.
Ear Infections and Earwax Buildup: Infections or blockages in the ear canal can affect hearing and cause tinnitus.
Medications: Certain medications, known as ototoxic drugs, can have side effects that include tinnitus. These may include some antibiotics, diuretics, and chemotherapy drugs.
Medical Conditions: Conditions such as Meniere’s disease, TMJ disorders, and high blood pressure can be associated with tinnitus.
Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress and anxiety can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms, making them more noticeable and distressing.

Symptoms of Tinnitus

The primary symptom of tinnitus is the perception of sounds that are not caused by external sources. These sounds can vary widely, including:

Ringing
Buzzing
Hissing
Clicking
Roaring

Tinnitus can be continuous or intermittent and may vary in intensity. For some, it may be a mild annoyance, while for others, it can significantly impact daily life and concentration.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Accurate diagnosis is essential for managing tinnitus effectively. At the Center for Hearing and Balance, our comprehensive evaluation includes:

Hearing Tests: To assess if hearing loss is contributing to your tinnitus.
Medical History Review: To identify any potential underlying medical conditions or medication-related issues.
Tinnitus Assessment: To understand the characteristics and impact of your tinnitus.

Treatment and Management

While there is no universal cure for tinnitus, several strategies can help manage and reduce symptoms:

Hearing Aids: For those with hearing loss, hearing aids can amplify external sounds, making tinnitus less noticeable.
Sound Therapy: Using background noise or white noise machines can help mask the tinnitus sounds, providing relief.
Lenire: Lenire is a medical device designed to treat tinnitus by combining sound therapy with electrical stimulation delivered through the tongue. Used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, Lenire offers a non-invasive option for individuals seeking relief from tinnitus symptoms.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This form of therapy helps individuals manage the emotional response to tinnitus and reduce stress.
Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT): A specialized approach that combines sound therapy and counseling to help you habituate to tinnitus.
Lifestyle Changes: Reducing exposure to loud noises, managing stress, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine and nicotine can help alleviate symptoms.

Ongoing Support

Managing tinnitus often requires ongoing care and adjustments. Our team at the Center for Hearing and Balance is committed to providing continuous support, including regular follow-ups, treatment adjustments, and educational resources to help you cope with tinnitus.

Get Help Today

If you’re experiencing tinnitus or have concerns about your hearing health, the Center for Hearing and Balance is here to assist. Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and explore personalized treatment options to improve your quality of life.

Center for Hearing and Balance is dedicated to providing expert care for hearing loss, balance disorders, and related conditions. We offer advanced diagnostic testing, top-quality hearing aids with risk-free trials, and personalized treatment plans to enhance your hearing and overall well-being.

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(479) 785-3277

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7200 Cameron Park Dr
Fort Smith, AR 72903
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