What tinnitus is and how to manage it

Tinnitus is the perception of sound where there is no presence of any corresponding external sound. It is not a disease or illness but a symptom generated by the auditory system associated with hearing loss, problems with the hearing pathway or Ménière’s disease. In other cases it may be linked to exposure to loud noises or damage to the inner ear.

It is often described as ‘ringing’ in the ears however it may be perceived as buzzing, hissing or humming. Tinnitus varies greatly from person to person, for some people it may be intermittent whilst others experience it continuously. It is estimated that around six million people in the UK experience persistent tinnitus. In some cases tinnitus can have a huge impact on your quality of life, possibly affecting your ability to sleep or concentrate.

Tinnitus Management

Managing tinnitus

At Altrincham Hearing Centre we will work together with you to develop an individualised management plan that best suits your needs. As tinnitus is commonly associated with hearing loss, we will also complete a hearing assessment. If it is required, wearing a discreet hearing aid can reduce the impact of tinnitus whilst restoring your ability to hear. Hearing technology is expertly fitted and programmed to align with your hearing needs. Sound enrichment or sound therapy can also complement treatment and alleviate tinnitus.

Sound therapy for tinnitus

Our latest solutions create a customisable and comforting sound stimulus that we can fine-tune to soothe your tinnitus allowing you to feel in control. The result is personalised sound therapy designed to mask or cover up your tinnitus and take your focus off it.

Other sound therapy strategies can be used as well, including listening to white noise, nature sounds, or soothing music to make tinnitus less noticeable. Stress has also been found to impact tinnitus symptoms, so relaxation techniques may be recommended. Engaging in deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and other strategies can help reduce stress and increase comfort.

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