Tinnitus Treatment What is it?
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)is the hearing of ringing, buzzing, humming, humming or other noises in the ears or head. These are sounds that are heard only by the person himself/herself, without an external source. Tinnitus is usually caused by problems in the inner ear, the auditory nerves or the areas of the brain that process sound. Tinnitus can be short-term or become chronic and negatively affect the quality of life.
Tinnitus treatmenttinnitus treatment involves a series of medical interventions aimed at alleviating and sometimes completely eliminating the symptoms by identifying the underlying cause of this discomfort. Treatment options vary depending on the cause of tinnitus, its severity and the patient's general state of health.
Hearing loss can significantly affect the quality of life, especially when not diagnosed early. For this reason, hearing loss surgery is an effective treatment method used to ensure that sound is properly transmitted to the ear, to increase the hearing capacity of the individual and to facilitate daily life.
Tinnitus Causes
Tinnitus can develop due to many different causes. Some of the most common causes are:
- Noise Exposure: Prolonged exposure to loud environments (e.g. concerts or construction sites) can lead to hearing loss and tinnitus.
- Ageing With ageing, hearing cells are naturally damaged and this can cause tinnitus.
- Ear Infections and Earwax: Middle ear infections or excessive accumulation of earwax can cause tinnitus.
- Blood Circulation Problems: Circulatory problems such as narrowing of blood vessels or high blood pressure can cause tinnitus.
- Medicines Some medications (especially high doses of aspirin and some antibiotics) can trigger tinnitus.
- Nerve Damage and Brain Problems: Tinnitus can sometimes be caused by damage to the auditory nerves or the sound perception centres of the brain.
Tinnitus Treatment Methods
Tinnitus treatment is determined by the severity of the symptoms experienced by the patient and the cause of the tinnitus. Here are common treatment methods:
1. Medical Treatment
Medication: Some medications can be used to relieve the symptoms of tinnitus. These can reduce tinnitus, often by treating accompanying conditions such as anxiety or depression.
2. Steroid Therapy: In tinnitus caused by infection, inflammation or nerve problems, steroids or anti-inflammatory drugs may be used.
3. Voice Therapy
Sound therapy is one of the most effective treatments for tinnitus. In this method, low-level sounds are introduced from outside (e.g. nature sounds, white noise). These sounds mask the ringing sound and reduce the discomfort level of the patients.
4. Brain Wave Therapy Methods (Tinnitus Retraining Therapy - TRT)
Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) involves a psychological approach to tinnitus. This treatment aims to desensitise the patient's brain to the sound of tinnitus. With this method, patients learn to perceive the tinnitus sound as less disturbing.
5. Cochlear Implants and Hearing Aids
Hearing aids or cochlear implants can be used for tinnitus associated with hearing loss. These devices amplify external sounds and make tinnitus less noticeable.
6. Biofeedback and Psychotherapy
Biofeedback is a method based on learning to control body functions. Stress and anxiety associated with tinnitus can be managed through psychotherapy (e.g. cognitive behavioural therapy).
7. Surgical Intervention
In rare cases, tinnitus may require surgical intervention. This is preferable in cases where the cause of the ringing is a structural problem (e.g. a tumour).
Tinnitus Recovery Process in Treatment
The recovery process in tinnitus treatment varies from person to person. Starting treatment early can lead to more effective results in managing symptoms. Some patients may experience relief within a few weeks, while others may take longer. Regular medical check-ups and certain lifestyle changes (avoidance of noise exposure, stress management) may be recommended during the treatment process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is tinnitus treatment performed?
Hearing loss surgery can be applied to individuals with conditions such as holes in the eardrum, ossicular damage in the middle ear, inner ear damage or genetic hearing loss. In addition, surgical options are also offered for patients who do not benefit from other treatment methods.
Can tinnitus be treated?
Tinnitus can be treated, but the course of treatment varies depending on the individual and the cause of the tinnitus. Although the symptoms may not disappear completely, there are methods to improve quality of life.
Which treatment is most effective for tinnitus?
The most effective treatment method is different for each patient. Methods such as sound therapy, brainwave therapy and hearing aids are often successful. Your doctor will determine the most suitable treatment method for you.
Which medicines are used for tinnitus?
Some antidepressants and anxiolytics can be used to relieve tinnitus symptoms. In addition, medications used for stress management may also be useful. Medication should only be used on the advice of a doctor.
Does tinnitus require surgical intervention?
Most cases of tinnitus do not require surgical intervention. However, in rare cases, if a structural problem (e.g. a tumour) is found, surgical intervention may be considered.
How long does tinnitus treatment last?
The duration of treatment varies depending on the severity of tinnitus and the treatment method. Some patients may experience relief within a few weeks, while others may have a longer recovery period.
Can tinnitus recur?
Yes, tinnitus can recur despite treatment. However, with treatment methods and lifestyle changes, the symptoms can be managed and made less bothersome.
