Understanding Your Options for Relief with Tinnitus

Understanding Tinnitus: What That Ringing in Your Ears Really Means

If you've ever experienced a persistent ringing, buzzing, or humming in your ears, you're not alone. Tinnitus affects approximately 15-20% of Australians at some point in their lives. While it can be frustrating, understanding your options is a good first step.

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. People describe it differently: some hear ringing, others notice buzzing, clicking, hissing, or even pulsing sounds. It can occur in one or both ears and may be constant or intermittent.

For many people, tinnitus is linked to hearing loss, though it can also result from exposure to loud noises, ear infections, certain medications, or age-related changes in the auditory system.

Management Options

An audiologist may discuss management options such as:

1. Hearing Aids

For those with hearing loss alongside tinnitus, hearing aids may help by amplifying external sounds, which can make the internal tinnitus sounds less noticeable. Many modern hearing devices include dedicated tinnitus management features.

2. Sound Therapy

Sound therapy uses external sounds to help mask or distract from tinnitus. This might include:

• White noise machines
• Nature sounds or ambient music
• Specialised tinnitus masking devices
• Smartphone apps designed for tinnitus relief

3. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT)

TRT combines sound therapy with counselling to help your brain learn to filter out tinnitus sounds.

4. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT can help change the way you think about and respond to tinnitus. While it doesn't eliminate the sound, it may help with how tinnitus affects you day to day.

When to Seek Professional Help

Consider seeing your GP or an audiologist if your tinnitus:

• Is persistent or getting worse
• Occurs in only one ear
• Is accompanied by hearing loss or dizziness
• Is affecting your sleep, concentration, or emotional wellbeing
• Is pulsatile (rhythmic, matching your heartbeat)

What to Expect at a Tinnitus Assessment

A comprehensive tinnitus assessment typically includes:

• A detailed hearing evaluation
• Discussion of your medical history and your tinnitus
• Assessment of the pitch and loudness of your tinnitus
• Evaluation of how tinnitus affects your quality of life
• Discussion of management options suited to your individual needs

Take the First Step

Living with tinnitus can be challenging, but you don't have to manage it alone. Our audiologists at CQ Audiology can assess your hearing, discuss how tinnitus affects you, and explore which management options may suit your individual situation.

Book a tinnitus assessment today to start your journey toward better hearing health.