Tinnitus does not have a cure. However, the symptoms of tinnitus are manageable and can reduce the discomfort associated with tinnitus. If you are among the many individuals who have tinnitus, it is essential that you find ways to alleviate the effects of tinnitus. If you are seeking alternative ways to help you manage your tinnitus symptoms, there are physical and psychological modalities available to you. No matter what path you take, keep these guidelines in mind:
- Understand your tinnitus. Keep a record of what triggers your tinnitus and try to avoid these triggers.
- Take care of yourself. Try to reduce stress levels which aggravate your tinnitus. Pay attention to foods you eat as some can worsen tinnitus.
- Use ear protection. A quality pair of earplugs or noise canceling headphones can protect your ears from the loud noises that worsen tinnitus.
- Maintain a positive attitude. Keep a positive attitude which will help keep your body healthy and help you heal faster.
- Seek support. Let family and friends know about your tinnitus and consider an online or community support group.
Physical Options
There are numerous physical treatment options for tinnitus. These range from electrical stimulation to tube drainage. Here are popular treatment options for tinnitus:
- Acupuncture. Acupuncture points under the earlobe are selected to bring relief for tinnitus.
- Gingko. If your tinnitus is the product of circulatory problems, Gingko will help. It augments the flow of blood to the head and brain.
- Eustachian tube drainage. This technique drains fluid away from the ear which relieves congestion. Eustachian tube drainage is beneficial if your tinnitus is due to congestion.
- Cranio-sacral therapy. Cranio-sacral therapy is a hands-on treatment that improves the flow of spinal fluid around the brain and spinal column to bring relief from tinnitus symptoms.
- Biofeedback. This therapy uses mild electrical stimulation to help you become more aware of physical changes resulting from stressors.
Psychological Options
Cognitive and behavioral therapies which focus on a person’s emotional response to tinnitus are established and effective treatments for tinnitus. These therapies reduce tinnitus-related stress, anxiety, and depression. Procedures may include:
- Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). MBSR teaches tinnitus patients to embrace and control their experiences. This process enables tinnitus patients to manage tinnitus instead of ignoring it.
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This approach teaches patients to experience thoughts, perceptions, and emotions in a direct way which gives them control over their reactions.
- Tinnitus Activities Treatment (TAT). This therapy focuses on four areas of impact on tinnitus including thoughts and emotions, hearing and communication, sleep, and concentration.
- Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT). Therapy that combines the use of traditional counseling with supplemental sound masking to help people manage tinnitus.
- Progressive Tinnitus Mangement (PTM). This approach to tinnitus treatment involves patient education, behavioral therapy, and supplemental sound therapy.
If the ringing in your ears is causing you difficulty, be sure to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any form of tinnitus treatment. There are numerous therapeutic techniques and psychological therapies to help you cope with the symptoms of tinnitus so don’t let tinnitus sideline you another day.
