If you’re here, you’re probably grappling with the elusive and often vexing issue of tinnitus. That constant ringing, buzzing, or hissing can be more than just a nuisance—it can interfere with your quality of life. We know it’s tough, but there’s light at the end of the tunnel. At Anne Arundel Audiology, we specialize in offering a range of audiological services designed to help you manage your tinnitus symptoms effectively. So, let’s take a journey together to explore these options. Grab your favorite snack, get comfy, and read on!

The Importance of Diagnosis

First and foremost, diagnosing the severity and type of your tinnitus is critical. While tinnitus itself is a symptom rather than a standalone condition, its characteristics can vary greatly from person to person. It can be high-pitched or low, constant or intermittent, in one ear or both. Accurate diagnosis helps us tailor the treatment to your specific needs.

Our diagnostic process usually involves a series of hearing tests, an examination of your ear canals, and often a review of your medical history. It may sound comprehensive—and it is—but the more information we have, the better we can help you.

Hearing Aids and Maskers

Now, onto the core of what we can do for you—starting with hearing aids and masking devices. Modern hearing aids are equipped with tinnitus-masking features that produce a white noise or other sounds to mask the symptoms of tinnitus. They serve a dual purpose—improving hearing loss while also alleviating tinnitus symptoms.

Masking devices, on the other hand, are solely geared towards drowning out the tinnitus noise. These can be particularly useful if you have little to no hearing loss. Either way, these devices can be a game-changer, and they’re customizable to suit your comfort and preferences.

Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT)

Another popular method we employ is Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT). This involves a combination of low-level, steady background sounds played through a device and talk therapy. The goal here is not just to mask the tinnitus, but to retrain your brain to ignore it. Over time, many people find that they notice their tinnitus less and less.

This is a more long-term approach, and patience is key. However, many find it to be a worthwhile investment, as it aims to reduce the tinnitus’ impact rather than just cover it up.

Biofeedback and Neurofeedback

We also offer more technologically advanced treatments like biofeedback and neurofeedback. These techniques teach you how to control physiological functions to reduce stress, a common trigger for tinnitus flare-ups. By mastering certain relaxation techniques and becoming aware of how your body reacts to stress, you can indirectly control the intensity of your tinnitus.

Contact Your Audiologist For Assistance

Tinnitus can feel like a never-ending cycle of frustration. But armed with the right information and supported by personalized, professional audiological services, you can break that cycle. At Anne Arundel Audiology, we are committed to helping you find the relief you deserve.

Ready to take the first step towards conquering your tinnitus? Contact us today for a consultation. Together, we can work on a treatment plan that’s right for you, giving you back the peace and quiet you’ve been missing.