Tinnitus

What is tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the name given to the perception of sounds that are not present in the environment, such as ringing in your ears, buzzing or hissing. Although these sounds are often perceived as quite loud, objective measurements show that they are often fainter than the sound of a leaf falling to the ground. However, as you notice the tinnitus sound and begin paying attention to it, the sound can trigger a strong, negative emotional response. Unfortunately, a vicious cycle is created that causes you to pay even more attention to the sound, and your brain loses its ability to filter out the irrelevant noise before it reaches your consciousness.

How common is tinnitus?

Most people by some point in their lives have experienced some tinnitus, even those with normal hearing. Between 10% and 15% of the population suffer from some degree of tinnitus, with more than half affected in both ears. In the United States alone, 1 in 5 people experience tinnitus regularly, and nearly 12 million people every year seek medical advice.

Understanding your tinnitus

If you have tinnitus, you are not alone. Tinnitus can be a byproduct of exposure to loud noise, such as a rock concert or night out at a club, and will disappear after a few hours or the morning after. Other times, it can begin spontaneously without any reason, disappearing as suddenly as it began. Many professionals believe this is just a function of the normal hearing system. Some individuals, however, experience tinnitus on an ongoing basis, requiring advice and assistance from hearing care professionals.

Beltone Tinnitus Calmer app

If you regularly experience tinnitus, Beltone offers a solution to distract your brain with the Tinnitus Calmer app. Users can get relief from tinnitus through a combination of sound therapy and relaxing exercises. The app is available on iPhone, iPad and Android devices.