Treating Tinnitus with Hearing Aids

Tinnitus is a hearing-related issue that impacts roughly 10% of the US population. While each individual may experience tinnitus in a different way, it often manifests as a ringing or buzzing-like noise in one or both ears. The prevalence of the symptoms means that there are various treatment options available for those who experience it, regardless of the cause or severity. However, the use of hearing aids is one of the most popular forms of intervention.

How Can Hearing Aids Treat Tinnitus?

The use of hearing aids can treat tinnitus, and they can be used to help reduce the symptoms or the severity of the issue. For example, hearing aids with masking capabilities can mask the noises associated with tinnitus by amplifying other external noises instead. This is achieved through the use of tinnitus masking, noise reduction tech, volume control and directional microphones. When wearing these hearing aids, you may find it easier to block out the ringing noise. If you’d like to try using hearing aids to mask the symptoms of tinnitus or other related hearing conditions, then you should schedule an appointment with your hearing health professional to discuss this further.

Working with an hearing health professional to receive an official diagnosis will not only give you peace of mind, but it also means that you can gain access to expert advice and support relating to which hearing aid is best for you. After all, there are many different types of hearing aids, including in the ear (ITE), behind the ear (BTE) and in the canal (ITC), and the style you should choose depends on a variety of factors such as the severity of your hearing health and lifestyle. Your hearing health professional will also ensure that you know how to use your hearing aids effectively when it comes to masking the symptoms of tinnitus.

What is the Most Effective Treatment for Tinnitus?

Hearing aids are the most effective method for reducing tinnitus symptoms, especially when used correctly and consistently. However, they are also often used in conjunction with other forms of treatment to bring forth the best results or to best mask the symptoms. For example, a recent report found that 85% of patients reported an improvement in tinnitus after wearing a hearing aid and receiving counseling. Counseling for tinnitus or hearing loss can come in many forms, but perhaps the most effective is tinnitus retraining therapy.

Tinnitus retraining therapy is a therapeutic intervention method that aims to help reduce the frustration associated with tinnitus by helping individuals find ways to tune out the symptoms. This is often achieved through the use of technology, such as hearing aids and noise machines, alongside more traditional methods of therapy. This way, you can develop skills that help you to distract yourself when you’re experiencing symptoms of tinnitus.

In addition to using hearing aids, you may also notice a reduction in tinnitus symptoms through making significant lifestyle changes. For example, this could include quitting smoking and drinking. After all, these habits are often linked to the exacerbation of hearing loss and tinnitus. Talk with your hearing health professional about the different hearing aids styles and which you be best for you to combat your tinnitus.