Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)

What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is a medical condition characterized by persistent ringing in one or both ears which can only be heard by the affected individual. It has also been described as whistling, hissing, buzzing, or pulsing in the ear. These sounds may come and go; however, most sufferers experience symptoms 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The effects range from slight annoyance to severe disruption of everyday life. The American Tinnitus Association estimates that over 50 million Americans suffer from Tinnitus.

Tinnitus Treatment
Due to the personal and unique nature of each Tinnitus condition, proper evaluation and specialized treatment is necessary. Although there isn’t a single cure for Tinnitus, Chesapeake Hearing Centers audiologists are experienced at providing individual solutions on a case-by-case basis. After completing a hearing test, your professional may refer you to an otolaryngologist for further examination.

In many cases, the distressing combination of Tinnitus and hearing loss can be relieved with AGX hearing aids. While worn, a hearing device can restore ambient sounds and help fill Sound Voids™ to eliminate the effects of Tinnitus. An electronic device called a Masker may also be worn to distract from the ringing sensation. Maskers fit in the ear much like hearing aids and produce low-level sounds.

Our audiologists will also evaluate other treatment options with you including Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT). Tinnitus Retraining Therapy combines low-level, steady background sounds played through a device with intensive counseling. TRT is an involved process that can take 12-24 months to reduce the effects of Tinnitus.

If you are experiencing symptoms of Tinnitus, please don’t hesitate to contact us.