Tinnitus is a perception of noise in the ears or head when there is no external sound present. It is often described as ringing, buzzing, hissing, humming, roaring, crickets, ocean waves, etc. Tinnitus can be pronounced as ti-NIGHT-us or Tin-i-tus, both are correct.
About Tinnitus
Approximately over 45 million people in the United States have tinnitus. Based the 2011-2012 National Health and Nutritional Examinations Survey (most recent data), nearly 20 million people are dealing with burdensome tinnitus, while roughly 2 million individuals find their tinnitus severely debilitating that it impairs their normal daily function.
Causes of Tinnitus
There can be many potential causes of tinnitus. Dr. Novick will review your medical history extensively to try and help determine a possible cause, which could be due to the following:
Tinnitus Evaluation Process
Everyone experiences tinnitus differently. Our role is to educate you in understanding the neural mechanism behind tinnitus and to learn how to manage your tinnitus symptoms, which will ultimately reduce the stress, annoyance and anxiety associated with it.
Your initial tinnitus consultation appointment will be approximately 2 hours and we encourage you to bring a family member or friend.
When evaluating your tinnitus, we will check for any hearing loss. Why you ask? This is because approximately 90% of tinnitus cases also reveal an underlying hearing loss. We will explain your results and develop a treatment plan that best fits you, including various treatment options and coping strategies.
Treatment requires frequent directive educational counseling and regular follow-up visits. It is recommended that patients to fully commit to the treatment plan to maximize their success.
Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” – Vivian Greene
Even though there is no known cure for tinnitus, you can be rest assured that there are various tinnitus relief options
Tinnitus Relief Options
Even though there is no known cure for tinnitus, you can be assured that there are various tinnitus treatment options. Despite the various treatment options available, different individuals report varying degrees of success and relief from their tinnitus.
- Sound-Based Therapy: Various sound therapies are available for those with and without hearing impairment. The most preferred method is the use of small and discreet ear-level devices that can be worn throughout the day and night. Alternatively, tabletop sound generators and common household devices (fans/radios/televisions/smartphone apps, etc.) are useful and successful.
- Stress Reduction: Alleviating stress can do wonders for those who are annoyed by their tinnitus. Many people find relief through progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing, massage therapy, meditation and daily exercise. Stress management is key in facilitating habituation to tinnitus.
- Medical: We feel that all patients suffering from tinnitus should have a thorough medical evaluation by an otolaryngologist, a physician who specializes in the diseases of the ear, nose & throat.
- Psychological Therapy: Even though we do our very best in helping individuals cope/manage their tinnitus, sometimes we need a little help. In cases where we feel you have significant depression or anxiety; we will assist in a referral to a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Mindfulness Based Tinnitus Stress Reduction.
Contact us to learn more about tinnitus and different treatment options or to schedule an appointment.