Hearing loss may be caused by the natural aging process or exposure to excessive noise throughout a person’s lifespan. Most people who develop hearing loss may experience what’s called tinnitus, which is a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in their ears. Tinnitus can be a side effect of hearing loss and the noises that may result from it, such as ringing in the ears after exposure to loud noise. Some people are more sensitive to this than others and may need ear protection to ease their symptoms.
The good news is that people suffering from tinnitus can find relief from the use of hearing aids. Pediatric audiologists often recommend the use of hearing aids for tinnitus patients, as they are a common solution to alleviate their symptoms. Let’s look at how hearing aids can be used to help manage tinnitus
Understanding Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a common condition that may be caused by a variety of different factors. Loud noises are the most common cause of tinnitus, but other causes may include medications, ear infections, exposure to loud noise, or Meniere’s disease. A common result of hearing loss, tinnitus is the name for the ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound that the condition can produce.
It is important to understand that tinnitus is not a disease but rather a symptom. The severity of a person’s symptoms may vary from day to day, and they may be as low-key as a low hum or as loud as a ringing in the ears. According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 50 million people have tinnitus in the United States alone!
Hearing Aids as a Solution for Tinnitus
Hearing aids may be necessary for the loss of hearing in one or both ears, but they may be able to help those with tinnitus as well. In fact, hearing loss and tinnitus can occur from the same exposure to loud noise and even from exposure to hearing loss. To eliminate the symptoms, it may be necessary for someone suffering from tinnitus to wear hearing aids.
There are many different types of hearing aids to treat hearing loss, including digital technology and devices with invisible parts. It is also possible for a hearing aid wearer to customize their hearing aids by finding the right fit for their ears, as well as the right amplification and features.
The Benefits of Hearing Aids for Those with Tinnitus
Hearing aids can deliver a number of benefits for those suffering from tinnitus. For example, they can:
- Boost the signal of sound in the ears
- Allow the user to hear sounds they weren’t able to hear before
- Block out background noise
- Provide a sense of privacy and comfort
- Reduce the severity of their tinnitus symptoms
- Avoid unwanted sounds, like the ringing in the ears
- Provide a sense of control over their tinnitus
Ultimately, using hearing aids for tinnitus can help make someone’s life easier. Becoming a hearing aid wearer should be considered by anyone who is suffering from tinnitus.
Conclusion
Hearing aids are a great solution to the problems associated with hearing loss and tinnitus. Consider finding a skilled pediatric audiologist in your area to find out the best solution for your tinnitus.
Hear More Associates is Greater Boston’s most trusted hearing care specialist focused on hearing loss treatment and hearing aid fitting for the whole family. We take pride in our honest and compassionate approach to hearing care. You’ll find our hearing clinics in Massachusetts, Southern New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. Schedule an appointment today and let our specialists get you on the pathway to better hearing!
