Tinnitus is a common condition that can affect your hearing and quality of life. It manifests as ringing in the ears, buzzing, hissing, or other sounds not caused by an external source of the noise. This isn't psychiatric but rather something related to an underlying medical issue such as blood circulatory disorder, loss of hearing, or injuries in the ear/hearing mechanism.
Tinnitus can be temporary or permanent and its severity varies from person to person. In this article, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about tinnitus so you know more about it and how to manage it.
How do I get immediate relief from tinnitus?
There are several treatments that can help you get relief from tinnitus.
The most common treatment is sound therapy which provides a regular background noise to cover the tinnitus ringing so it doesn't stand out as much and become bothersome.
One great example of a sound therapy solution is the Tinnitus Control Instruments (TCIs). This is a type of hearing instrument that also incorporates noise-recreation therapy. TCI's typically have two components: one to address auditory deprivation through the use of amplification, and another component called "noise" which provides relief in situations where this first method isn't enough for someone who suffers from tinnitus.
There's also Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) where patients listen to soothing music to re-train their tinnitus. TRT can only be done under the supervision of a doctor or audiologist but it has been proven to help patients get relief from tinnitus conditions for many years after treatment.
There are also various tinnitus medications available such as tinnitus sedatives, analgesics, and antidepressants that can bring relief to tinnitus symptoms. However, it is best to consult with a doctor before taking any medication for tinnitus as some of these medications can have adverse side effects.
What is the most effective treatment for tinnitus?
While there is no clinically proven permanent cure for tinnitus, there are treatment options that can help manage the problem. And what appears to be working is a combination of Tinnitus Control Instruments (TCI's) and Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT).
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What are Tinnitus Control Instruments?
These can be described as customised hearing aids that provide tinnitus relief through sound-recreation technology. TCIs work by producing imperceptible tinnitus frequencies in combination with other sounds so you can enjoy music and other noise without tinnitus disrupting your hearing. -
How do Tinnitus Control Instruments work?
TCI's are customised to fit the unique needs of each patient, as everybody suffers from tinnitus differently. The technology used by TCIs is based on the principle of tinnitus masking which is when a sound is played that is louder than the tinnitus noise, but still pleasant to listen to. This helps to "mask" or cover up the tinnitus so it's not as noticeable and bothersome. -
How to combine Tinnitus Control Instruments (TCI's) and Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) to treat tinnitus?
If you are using tinnitus management devices like Tinnitus Control Instruments, it is also recommended to try Tinnitus Retraining Therapy as a complementary treatment in order to get the most effective tinnitus relief.
TRT re-trains your brain and ears so they can learn new ways of dealing with tinnitus and help you adapt to living with it. In tinnitus retraining therapy, a device known as a sound generator or tinnitus masker is used in combination with hearing devices like Tinnitus Control Instruments (TCIs). Sound generators produce tinnitus frequencies while simultaneously playing soothing white noise which helps cover up the tinnitus sound.
Is there any real relief for tinnitus?
Yes, there is a real relief for tinnitus. There are various treatments available that can help lessen the severity of tinnitus symptoms and provide some relief from the condition. The most effective treatment is a combination of Tinnitus Retraining Therapy and Tinnitus Control Instruments. There are medications that can also be helpful in managing tinnitus. It is best to consult with a doctor to find the treatment that is right for you. You may also refer to our tinnitus relief service if you need help in managing it now.
What vitamin helps tinnitus go away?
There is no one vitamin that helps tinnitus go away. However, there are various tinnitus medications available that can help lessen the severity of tinnitus symptoms and provide relief from the condition.
Scientists believe tinnitus may be linked to a deficiency in zinc and vitamin B12. One study showed that taking ginkgo extract and melatonin provided relief from tinnitus. Additionally, it is important to consult with a doctor to find the right treatment and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Where to go for tinnitus relief in Malaysia?
For tinnitus relief in Malaysia, one hearing care center you can visit for professional consultation and recommendation is The Listening Lab.
The Listening Lab is a one-stop hearing solutions center that provides tinnitus relief through customised sound therapy solutions like Tinnitus Control Instruments (TCIs). You can learn more about it here.
Tinnitus is a complex condition of the ear that causes many to suffer in silence. But tinnitus can be effectively managed with customised sound therapy solutions like the ones mentioned. With the right tinnitus management devices, we can all enjoy a greater quality of life!
If you have any questions or need to discuss your tinnitus treatment with one of our experts at The Listening Lab, please book an appointment here. Remember it is important to consult with a doctor or an expert to find the right treatment for you.
