Compassionate Tinnitus Management at Cotton Tree Audiology
Tinnitus is described as a phantom sound in the head or ears with no corresponding sound source or stimulus in the environment. It is subjective in nature and cannot be heard by anyone but the sufferer.
At Cotton Tree Audiology we are sensitive to the impact this condition may have on the sufferer. Many of our clients arrive at our clinic after being told to ‘just live with it’. We offer a fully integrated, individualised, tinnitus management plan that includes proven audiological investigations and psychological treatment options.
What is Tinnitus?
For some the phantom sound experience may be trivial, with minor impact on their daily life, or it may be completely life-changing and disruptive. Generally, 10-15 % of the population reports more permanent tinnitus, of which 2-5% become bothered by it.
It is most often described as ringing in the ears, but it may encompass a range of sounds such as buzzing, chirping, grinding, whistling, humming or even multiple tones. It is often associated with hearing loss but may also be present when a person has normal hearing sensitivity. It may develop gradually or occur suddenly. It may be in one ear, both ears or more central (“in the head”). Tinnitus can occur at any age.
It has been with us since Roman times, the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. The term is attributed to Pliny the Elder (23-79CE). Some of its most famous sufferers include Michelangelo (1475-1564) who wrote about “a spider’s web is hidden in one ear, in the other a cricket sings throughout the night. I do not sleep”.
Beethoven (1770-1827) who described my ears hum and buzz continuously day and night. I can tell you I lead a miserable life” and Martin Luther (1483-1546) who stated when I try to work, my head becomes filled with all kinds of whizzing, buzzing, thundering noises.
The most important consideration is whether it has become bothersome to the person, particularly if affects mood, sleep and lifestyle. Is tinnitus bothering you?
Tinnitus Investigation
Tinnitus investigation starts with a thorough hearing assessment because the condition so often occurs in the presence of hearing loss. We also explore mental health impact and collaborate with you to design a treatment plan that aims to:
- Shift of the focus away from tinnitus
- To reclassify the phantom sound as neutral and unharmful
These aims are achieved through a sound-based (in the presence of hearing loss) and/or counselling-based (no evidence of hearing loss) approach. Relief from suffering is possible and proven in the research.