Effective treatments for tinnitus relief and management

Tinnitus can be so persistent that many people with tinnitus just “learn to live with it.” But a compromised hearing experience may not be a life sentence. 

Two general approaches hearing care professionals or ear, nose and throat specialists take to treat tinnitus are to:

1. Reduce the intensity and
2. Manage the client’s reaction.

A variety of tinnitus treatment options are available. The best treatment option can vary, based on the cause of your tinnitus.

Sound therapy and tinnitus masking

Sound therapy or tinnitus masking are common forms of tinnitus treatment.

Sound therapy uses background noise to relax you, reducing the negative impact tinnitus can have on your wellbeing.

Soothing ocean-like sounds, for example, can help dull the ringing/buzzing sound, making it less noticeable in quiet environments.

Tinnitus masking uses an external sound source to eliminate or reduce your awareness of tinnitus.

Hearing aids can produce soothing-ocean like sounds to treat tinnitus

Sound therapy and/or tinnitus masking can be provided through:

• Apps dedicated to tinnitus relief
• Sound and sleep apps
• Sound therapy machines
• Hearing aids with built-in tinnitus treatment

Although tinnitus does not mean you have a hearing loss, hearing loss and tinnitus are closely linked. Hearing aids may be your ideal tinnitus treatment option if you have hearing loss.

In Canada, you can only purchase tinnitus hearing aids if you are diagnosed with hearing loss from a licensed hearing care professional. Book a free hearing test for a hearing loss diagnosis.

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Cognitive behavioural therapy

Evidence that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) reduces the negative impact of tinnitus is limited.

CBT uses psychological treatments attention control, imagery training and relaxation methods to change your perception of tinnitus. It may be paired with other treatment options to increase its effectiveness.

Note: HearingLife Canada does not offer cognitive behavioural therapy.

Tinnitus retraining therapy

Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT) uses a combination of directive counselling and sound therapy.

Note: HearingLife Canada does not offer tinnitus retraining therapy.

Earwax removal

Excessive earwax buildup can cause irritation or blockage in the ear canal, triggering tinnitus. Removing the earwax through proper cleaning techniques or with the assistance of a healthcare professional may help alleviate tinnitus associated with earwax buildup.

If you suspect your tinnitus may be linked to earwax buildup, schedule a professional earwax removal.

Consequences of untreated tinnitus

If you suffer from tinnitus, you may be sensitive to places with constant talking or loud music. You may choose to avoid these environments altogether, limiting your social interactions.

Tinnitus is so disruptive that a full night’s sleep can also become difficult to achieve. This may lead to insomnia or other sleep disorders.

Tinnitus, if left untreated, may also lead to:

• Anger
• Concentration problems
• Isolation
• Depression

If you have tinnitus and are experiencing any of these issues, speak to a hearing care professional for coping methods and recommendations.

Is there a cure for tinnitus?

The short answer: It depends on the cause of your tinnitus, so it's always best to consult your doctor or hearing care professional.

If your tinnitus is caused by a condition that can be treated, your tinnitus can improve once the condition improves.

With other tinnitus causes, such as hearing loss, there isn't a cure. Fortunately, there are effective options for management and alleviation. By managing your tinnitus, you can live a more full, present, and joyful life.