Understanding & Managing Tinnitus

Tinnitus affects millions worldwide, yet it’s often misunderstood. Whether it’s a mild background noise or a life-altering condition, understanding tinnitus is crucial. Let’s explore key facts and clinically proven management techniques.

1.       Tinnitus Affects Everyone Differently

Tinnitus varies in intensity and affects approximately 750 million people worldwide. While some experience occasional ringing, about 5% of individuals with tinnitus find it severely impacts their daily life. If someone tells you they have tinnitus, it's always worth asking how it affects them—it’s not the same for everyone.

2.       The Strong Link Between Tinnitus and Hearing Loss

Did you know 80% of people with hearing loss also have tinnitus? (And vice versa!) A leading theory suggests that when the ear receives less auditory input, the brain compensates by generating internal noise. This could explain why hearing loss and tinnitus often go hand in hand.

3.       Tinnitus and Sound Sensitivity (Hyperacusis)

Many individuals with tinnitus also experience hyperacusis, a condition where loud noises feel uncomfortably intense. This may be due to increased nerve sensitivity in the auditory system, making sound perception more pronounced.

4.       Clinically Proven Ways to Manage Tinnitus

The good news? There are evidence-based techniques to help manage tinnitus symptoms:

• Hearing Aids – Beneficial for those with both hearing loss and tinnitus, as they restore external sound input and reduce internal noise perception.

• Sound Therapy – Background noise or specialised soundscapes can help mask tinnitus and retrain the brain’s response.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – A well-established approach to reduce the emotional distress associated with tinnitus.

According to Cima et al. (2019), a multidisciplinary approach—including counselling, sound therapy, and behavioural therapy—is the most effective way to manage tinnitus. Their research highlights that while there’s no single cure, a combination of strategies can significantly improve quality of life.

Seeking Professional Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with tinnitus, expert support is available - contact Barclay Winter Audiology at 06 650 7248 today.

References:
Cima, R. F., Mazurek, B., Haider, H., Kikidis, D., Lapira, A., Norena, A., ... & Peter, N. (2019). A multidisciplinary European guideline for tinnitus: diagnostics, assessment, and treatment. Hearing Research, 377, 9-21.