What is Tinnitus?

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the name for the perception of sounds such as ringing, buzzing, or hissing when these sounds are not present in the environment. In the United States, an estimated 50 million people experience tinnitus and nearly 12 million people a year seek medical advice. 

What causes tinnitus?

The onset of tinnitus is often related to exposure to loud sounds, which can cause damage to the sensory cells of the inner ear. It has also been associated with excessive ear wax, ear infections, high blood pressure, the aging process, and sensory nerve disorders. Activities which can cause tinnitus include drinking alcohol or caffeine, taking aspirin or antibiotics, and cigarette smoking.

What can you do?

If you have, or suspect you have tinnitus, you should be evaluated to determine what options are available for managing it. When it is determined that there are no specific medical issues involved, there are several options to consider.

In the majority of cases, the individual experiencing tinnitus also has a hearing loss. The use of a hearing aid to amplify sounds can help cover up the tinnitus and make it less distracting. Other devices are also available that generate sounds to help mask the tinnitus. Combined with counseling from a hearing professional, these devices can be used to teach the individual how to reduce or remove the distraction of the tinnitus.

How can we help?

Beltone offers hearing  instruments that can be used as both a hearing aid and a sound generator for managing tinnitus. The Beltone Trust with Tinnitus Breaker feature is available in a variety of models and sizes to meet your needs. Along with the Tinnitus Breaker, Trust offers sophisticated digital technology for helping you hear better, even in noisy environments.

If you have, or suspect you have, tinnitus, contact your Beltone Hearing Care Professional to discuss how these devices may help you.