Tinnitus: the most effective dietary supplements

Tinnitus is a common auditory symptom, characterized by the perception of sounds in the absence of any external sound stimulation. According to the Larousse dictionary, it is an 'auditory sensation perceived in the absence of any external stimulation to the organism'. Unlike certain hearing disorders caused by externally originated sounds (audible sounds, infra- or ultrasound, electromagnetic fields), tinnitus manifests independently of the acoustic environment. It is therefore a sign of an underlying pathology, but is not a disease in itself.

Symptoms

People with tinnitus often describe a variety of internal sounds, such as ringing, buzzing, pulsations, or clicking. Although it is common to briefly hear these sounds in extremely quiet environments, these noises become problematic when they persist in normal sound environments, causing bother and discomfort. Tinnitus can be perceived constantly or intermittently, and its intensity varies from person to person.

Possible causes

There are two main types of tinnitus: objective tinnitus and subjective tinnitus. Objective tinnitus, which is rarer, can be heard or recorded during a medical examination. It is often caused by vascular abnormalities, requiring appropriate radiological imaging, or by underlying neurological conditions. Conversely, subjective tinnitus, much more common, is perceived only by the patient. Its mechanism is more complex and shares similarities with pain syndromes experienced after an amputation.

Treatments and management

There is no universal treatment to eliminate tinnitus, but several strategies can help reduce its effects. Treatment varies depending on the identified cause. In some cases, medications are prescribed to treat a specific condition, such as an infection or a vascular abnormality. Patients with hearing loss may benefit from hearing aids, which help not only to improve hearing but also to reduce the perception of tinnitus. One of the most effective methods is the use of white noise generators to mask tinnitus. Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT), which combines sound enrichment and the use of noise generators for a period of 12 to 18 months, is often accompanied by counseling sessions to help the patient better manage their perception of these internal sounds. In addition, cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT) have proven effective in treating the emotional and psychological reactions related to tinnitus, particularly by reducing the stress and anxiety they can cause.

Learning to live with tinnitus

Chronic tinnitus can be disabling, but management relies on a personalized approach. It is essential to understand the phenomenon to reduce the worry associated with this symptom. Enriching the sound environment, for example by using sound generators or soothing sounds, helps divert attention away from tinnitus. Relaxation techniques, such as meditation or practicing yoga, are also recommended to reduce stress, an aggravating factor for tinnitus.