Imagine a few minutes a day on your phone helping your brain tune out that ringing in your ears. New digital programmes are making tinnitus management more accessible, giving people practical ways to reduce its impact at home.

Tinnitus is the perception of sound when there is no external source. Some people hear ringing, buzzing or hissing sounds. For some, it’s mild, but for others it can affect sleep, concentration and overall wellbeing. While there isn't a simple 'cure', the brain plays a major role in how we experience it. Treatment often focuses on helping the brain learn to filter the sound out – a process called habituation.

There are many treatment options available to support people with tinnitus. Different options suit different people, and it is important to rule out medical issues or even something simple like wax before starting treatment. The first step is seeing an audiologist for a wax and hearing check. If we find something suspicious, we might recommend a full hearing evaluation or referral. We can also discuss and help you choose which treatment suits you best.

We have recently started recommending two digital treatment options which combine relaxation, mindfulness and practical strategies to help reduce the impact of tinnitus. One uses a schedule of only 10 minutes a day, the other is a more comprehensive 90 minutes a day. Both are backed by research showing benefits for eligible participants. Yet another option combines sound and nerve stimulation for a bimodal approach.

Tinnitus is highly individual, so a combination of approaches – including information, digital programmes, sound therapy, hearing aids, and stress and sleep management – often works best. When hearing loss is present, hearing aids can be particularly effective, improving hearing while providing masking sounds or adjusted amplification to make tinnitus less noticeable. If tinnitus is affecting your sleep, concentration or daily life, give us a call and make an appointment.

Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd
25 Apollo Drive, Rosedale
09 475 9849
admin@teresaburnshearing.co.nz
teresaburnshearing.co.nz