A Silent Sound: Understanding and Managing Tinnitus

Have you ever heard a ringing, buzzing or hissing sound that no one else seems to hear? This is a common symptom of a condition known as tinnitus. While it can be a temporary annoyance after a loud event, for many people, it can become a persistent and disruptive condition.

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. It is a symptom, not a disease itself. The sounds can vary from person to person and may change in pitch and loudness. Tinnitus is often associated with age-related hearing loss or noise exposure, and it can also be triggered by stress, certain medications or circulatory system disorders.

The Common Symptoms and Triggers

The most common symptom is a phantom sound in one or both ears, but other signs can include:

• Feeling like your hearing is muffled

• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating

• Feelings of frustration or anxiety

While the exact cause is not always clear, some common triggers include:

• Noise Exposure: Loud noises from work or recreational activities can damage the delicate hair cells in your inner ear.

• Hearing Loss: Tinnitus is frequently associated with hearing loss, as the brain tries to compensate for the missing sounds.

• Ear Wax Blockage: A build-up of ear wax can sometimes contribute to tinnitus by affecting the pressure in your ear.

How Beacon Audiology Can Help

Tinnitus can't always be "cured," but it can be effectively managed. Our audiologists conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand your unique condition and develop a personalised treatment plan. This may include:

• Sound Therapy: Wearable sound generators facilitate habituation, progressively diverting your attention from the tinnitus sound.

• Education: Provide information and support for tinnitus management.

• Hearing Aids: For individuals with both hearing loss and tinnitus, contemporary hearing aids offer an effective solution by amplifying external sounds, thereby reducing the prominence of tinnitus.

Our goal is to help you take control of your tinnitus and improve your quality of life. If you are experiencing persistent tinnitus, a professional consultation is the first step toward finding relief.

Schedule an appointment with our team of audiologists today.