Tinnitus, characterized by internal ringing, buzzing, clicking or roaring sounds in the ear, affects approximately 15% to 20% of people and can lead to stress, anxiety, irritability and sleep disturbances. Although tinnitus lacks a definitive cure, effective symptom management strategies can significantly improve quality of life.
Notch therapy is among the various options available for managing tinnitus symptoms. Let’s look at how notch therapy works and whether it is a possible option for your tinnitus.
Understanding Notch Therapy
Traditionally, tinnitus management methods have revolved around acceptance therapy or masking. Acceptance therapy aims to reduce stress and anxiety associated with tinnitus, while masking involves using external sounds to drown out the internal ones.
Notch therapy, however, operates differently. It targets the specific frequency of an individual’s tinnitus, effectively decreasing its amplification to facilitate the brain’s ability to ignore it.
Evaluating Effectiveness
Although still relatively new, notch therapy shows promise. Notch therapy exhibited encouraging results in a small-scale study involving 29 patients with newly diagnosed chronic tinnitus. After just one month of treatment, the therapy demonstrated its capability to inhibit tinnitus by regulating the auditory center. Additionally, the study indicated that notch therapy could access the brain’s emotional control center, thereby mitigating adverse emotional reactions triggered by the internal ringing.
Notch therapy is still relatively new, and while it requires more research, it does present a possible reprieve from tinnitus symptoms. Given the individualized nature of tinnitus experiences, what works for one person may not yield the same results for another. Consulting with an audiologist to identify personal triggers and experiences related to tinnitus is crucial. This enables you to explore suitable management tools such as therapy and hearing aids under professional guidance.
Recognizing the Benefits of Tinnitus Management
The detrimental effects of tinnitus extend beyond mere auditory disturbances, impacting relationships, work performance, sleep quality and overall well-being. Simple activities like reading at Café Aloe can become marred by frustrating internal ringing, potentially affecting concentration and enjoyment. By effectively managing tinnitus symptoms, you can mitigate its negative impact on mood, relationships and other daily activities.
For more information on how tinnitus management can benefit you, contact Evergreen Speech and Hearing Clinic today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.