Tinnitus and you

Hearing Zone receives many questions from people regarding Tinnitus, a condition which affects 50 million adults across the U.S. Tinnitus is the perception of sound or a phantom noise that a person hears. This noise can vary in loudness and can be more distracting in a quiet situation. The noise people hear is usually referred to as a ringing but can very in the pitch and loudness.
While it’s common for people who have hearing loss to have tinnitus, hearing loss is not the causation. The most common cause of tinnitus is exposure to loud sounds like construction tools, music, fire arms, and machinery. Loud sounds are also a cause of hearing loss which is why both conditions are so closely related.
Hearing Aids can help people with tinnitus by masking the noise the person hears. People also report tinnitus symptoms are more extreme when going to bed at night. It’s recommended to have some recurring sound like soft music playing to keep the ear occupied with sound.
Some over-the-counter supplements have been advertised by companies and sold in drug stores. Unfortunately studies show no actual benefit from these supplements and the public should be weary of such products.
If you are experiencing tinnitus contact Hearing Zone in Alameda or Oakland to receive more information on treatment.