Tinnitus Assessments
Our tinnitus assessments can provide advice and assistance to help patients better live with their tinnitus (ringing-in-the-ears).
What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus refers to the perception of sound in one or both ears or in the head without any external source. This condition is commonly described as ringing, buzzing, hissing, roaring, or clicking in the ears. Tinnitus can vary in intensity and may be continuous or intermittent. While it is often a subjective experience, it can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, causing distress, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbances.
Is Tinnitus Related to Hearing Loss?
Tinnitus can be associated with hearing loss, although the two are not always directly linked. In many cases, tinnitus arises as a result of damage to the auditory system, including the inner ear. This damage can be caused by various factors such as exposure to loud noise, age-related hearing loss, extreme stress or trauma, ear infections, or certain medications. However, tinnitus can also occur without any evidence of hearing loss.
How is Tinnitus Treated and Managed by an Audiologist?
Audiologists play a crucial role in the evaluation, treatment, and management of tinnitus. They possess specialised knowledge and skills to help individuals suffering from tinnitus effectively cope with the condition. Here are some common approaches our audiologists may employ:
Tinnitus Assessment
We will conduct a thorough evaluation, including a detailed medical history, physical examination, and hearing tests, to identify the underlying causes and evaluate the impact of tinnitus on an individual’s hearing and overall well-being.
Counseling and Education
Our audiologists provide counseling and educational support to help patients understand tinnitus better. This includes explaining the possible causes, mechanisms, and potential treatment options. Counseling also focuses on managing emotional distress and developing coping strategies.
Sound Therapy
We may recommend various sound-based therapies to alleviate the perception of tinnitus. These can include devices such as over-the-counter (OTC) wearable sound generators or hearing aids with built-in sound therapy features or wireless access to them through mobile phone based apps. Sound therapy aims to reduce the contrast between tinnitus and ambient sounds, making your tinnitus less noticeable and bothersome.
Supportive Services
We can provide additional support services such as relaxation techniques, stress management strategies, and referral to other healthcare professionals if necessary.
Management Plan
It is important to note that there is no universal cure for tinnitus. However, by working closely with our audiologists, you will be given effective ways to manage and minimize the impact of tinnitus on your daily life.
If you are experiencing tinnitus, we recommend seeking professional help from an audiologist who can tailor a management plan to address your specific needs and provide professional support to help you better understand tinnitus and live better with your tinnitus.
