What is tinnitus?
Tinnitus is defined as ringing or other noises in the ears or head. It can take on a variety of forms including high-pitched ringing, buzzing, hissing, roaring or booming, or any combination of these sounds.
Tinnitus as a clinical problem has two aspects: the mechanism which generates the abnormal auditory sensations and the mechanisms by which this faint abnormal sensation is magnified and rendered persistent by higher centres of the brain.
The modern management of tinnitus involves a number of components, identifying the effects, teaching and demystification, sound enrichment, instrumentation and retraining tactics. The object, to banish the tinnitus to below the threshold of consciousness.
Hyperacusis
Hyperacusis and tinnitus often go hand in hand. It is a condition where there is an alteration in the central processing of sound, where everyday noises which in the past were acceptable, now give the experience of auditory discomfort.
Varying degrees of hyperacusis with or without tinnitus can be helped by a combination of explanation, counselling, and the appropriate use of low level signal sound generators.
What can be done?
The first step towards helping those with tinnitus is an extensive assessment, where the tinnitus can be measured and reproduced so that family members can actually hear the tinnitus signal you are experiencing.
Western Hearing Services offers individual solutions towards tinnitus treatment, so you never have to be told again "to get use to it". Contact any one of our conveniently located clinics to find out how you can start improving your lifestyle today or call us on 1800 677 011.