Hearing loss can occur when any part of the ear or auditory system malfunctions. There are various types of hearing loss, each with its causes and characteristics. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the different types of hearing loss, their causes, and their descriptions. Understanding the types of hearing loss can help individuals and healthcare professionals identify the most appropriate treatment options and management strategies.

Outer Ear:

The outer ear consists of three main components:

1. Pinna: The visible part of the ear on the sides of our heads.
2. Ear Canal: A tube-like structure connecting the outer and middle ear.
3. Eardrum (Tympanic Membrane): A thin membrane that separates the outer and middle ear.

Middle Ear

The middle ear includes the following:

1. Eardrum: The eardrum also exists in the middle ear and is crucial in transmitting sound vibrations.
2. Ossicles: The middle ear’s three small bones (malleus, incus, and stapes) amplify and transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear.

Inner Ear

The inner ear consists of several components:

1. Cochlea: A snail-shaped organ that converts sound vibrations into electrical signals that the brain can interpret.
2. Semicircular Canals: These structures help with balance and spatial orientation.
3. Auditory Nerves: Nerves that carry sound information from the ear to the brain for processing.

Types of Hearing Loss

There are three main types of hearing loss:

1. Conductive Hearing Loss: This hearing loss occurs when something prevents sound from passing through the outer or middle ear. It is often treatable with medical interventions or surgery.

1. Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Sensorineural hearing loss results from issues within the inner ear or the auditory nerve. It is typically permanent and may require hearing aids or cochlear implants for management.

1. Mixed Hearing Loss: Mixed hearing loss combines conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. The outer or middle ear and the inner ear or auditory nerve are affected.

Degrees of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can be classified based on its severity:

1. Normal Hearing Level: Individuals that do not have difficulty in understanding speech.
2. Mild Hearing Loss: Individuals with mild hearing loss may have difficulty hearing soft sounds but can generally understand speech.
3. Moderate Hearing Loss: People with moderate hearing loss struggle to hear speech when others speak normally.
4. Severe Hearing Loss: Those with severe hearing loss cannot understand speech at normal conversational levels and may only perceive loud sounds.
5. Profound Hearing Loss: Individuals with profound hearing loss cannot hear speech or most sounds, except for extremely loud sounds.

Descriptions of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can be described using various terms:

• Unilateral or Bilateral: Hearing loss affects one ear (unilateral) or both ears (bilateral).
• Pre-lingual or Post-lingual: Hearing loss occurs before a person learns to speak (pre-lingual) or after acquiring language skills (post-lingual).
• Symmetrical or Asymmetrical: Hearing loss is similar in both ears (symmetrical) or different in each ear (asymmetrical).
• Progressive or Sudden: Hearing loss worsens gradually over time (progressive) or occurs suddenly and abruptly (sudden).
• Fluctuating or Stable: Hearing loss improves or worsens periodically (fluctuating) or remains constant over time (stable).
• Congenital or Acquired/Delayed Onset: Hearing loss is present at birth (congenital) or develops later in life (acquired or delayed onset).

Understanding the different types of hearing loss, their causes, and their descriptions is crucial for effective diagnosis, treatment, and management. By recognizing the specific characteristics of each type, individuals with hearing loss and healthcare professionals can develop appropriate strategies to address the condition. If you suspect hearing loss, it is recommended to consult with a qualified audiologist or healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and personalized guidance.

Take the first step today and schedule a hearing assessment with a qualified professional. Your hearing is precious, and by preserving it, you can continue to engage in meaningful conversations, enjoy the sounds of life, and maintain healthy relationships for years to come.

Hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is a common condition that gradually occurs with age—more than half of the people in the United States over 75 experience some age-related hearing loss. There are three types of hearing loss: conductive, sensorineural, and mixed. While ageing and exposure to loud noises are common causes of hearing loss, other factors, such as excessive earwax, can also affect hearing. Although hearing loss is often irreversible, there are ways to improve auditory function.

Parts of the Ear: The ear consists of three primary parts: the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. Each section plays a distinct role in converting sound waves into signals sent to the brain.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hearing loss can vary but may include:

• Muffling of speech and other sounds
• Difficulty understanding words, particularly in noisy environments or crowds
• Trouble hearing non-vowel sounds
• Frequently asking others to speak louder, slower, or more clearly
• Needing to increase the volume of the television or radio
• Avoiding social settings
• Sensitivity to background noise
• Experiencing ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

When to See a Doctor

If you experience a sudden loss of hearing, especially in one ear, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. If you suspect hearing loss affects your daily life, consult your healthcare provider. Age-related hearing loss typically occurs gradually, making it easy to overlook initially.

Causes

It is helpful to have a basic understanding of how hearing works to understand how hearing loss occurs. Here’s how our hearing works:

The ear comprises the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. Sound waves pass through the outer ear and cause the eardrum to vibrate. These vibrations are then amplified by the eardrum and three small bones in the middle ear before travelling to the cochlea, a snail-shaped structure in the inner ear.

Thousands of tiny hair cells in the cochlea convert the vibrations into electrical signals, then transmitted to the brain. The brain interprets these signals as sound.

How Hearing Loss Can Occur:

Several factors can contribute to hearing loss, including:

• Damage to the inner ear: Aging and exposure to loud noises can cause wear and tear on the cochlea’s hair cells or nerve cells, impairing their ability to transmit sound signals to the brain. This results in hearing loss, particularly for higher-pitched sounds.
• The buildup of earwax: Over time, earwax can accumulate and block the ear canal, hindering the passage of sound waves. Removing the excess earwax can help restore hearing.
• Ear infections or abnormal growths: Infections, tumours, or bone growths in the outer or middle ear can lead to hearing loss.
• Ruptured eardrum: A loud noise, sudden pressure changes, insertion of foreign objects into the ear, or an infection can cause the eardrum to rupture, resulting in hearing loss.

Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase the risk of hearing loss, including:

• Ageing: The inner ear naturally deteriorates, leading to age-related hearing loss.
• Loud noise exposure: Prolonged exposure to loud sounds can damage the hair cells in the inner ear. This damage can occur gradually over time or from a single intense noise, such as a gunshot.
• Heredity: Genetic factors may make individuals more susceptible to ear damage from loud noises or ageing.
• Occupational noise exposure: Working in environments with constant loud noise, such as construction sites, factories, or farming, can lead to inner ear damage.
• Recreational noise exposure: Engaging in activities involving explosive noises (e.g., firearms, jet engines) or prolonged exposure to loud sounds (e.g., snowmobiling, motorcycling, carpentry, loud music) can cause immediate and permanent hearing loss.
• Certain medications: Some medications, such as gentamicin, sildenafil (Viagra), certain cancer treatments, and high doses of aspirin, pain relievers, antimalarial drugs, or loop diuretics, can damage the inner ear and potentially cause hearing loss.
• Illnesses: Certain illnesses, including meningitis and high fever, can harm the cochlea and result in hearing loss.

Complications

Hearing loss can negatively impact the quality of life. Older adults with hearing loss often report depression and isolation due to communication difficulties. Hearing loss has also been linked to cognitive impairment and an increased risk of falls.

Prevention

Taking steps to prevent hearing loss can help maintain auditory health. Consider the following preventive measures:

• Protect your ears: Avoiding exposure to loud noises is the best way to protect your hearing. If you work in a noisy environment, use plastic earplugs or glycerin-filled earmuffs to shield your ears.
• Regular hearing tests: If you are frequently exposed to loud noises, such as in your workplace, consider scheduling regular hearing tests. Early detection of hearing loss allows for timely intervention to prevent further deterioration.
• Minimize risks from recreational activities: Engaging in hobbies or recreational activities that involve loud noises, such as riding snowmobiles or jet skis, hunting, using power tools, or attending rock concerts, can damage your hearing over time. Use hearing protectors and take breaks from the noise to protect your ears. Lowering the volume when listening to music is also advisable.

Remember, addressing hearing loss promptly can significantly improve your quality of life and overall well-being. By recognizing the signs that indicate you may be due for a hearing assessment and taking proactive steps, you are prioritizing your hearing health and investing in a better future.

Take the first step today and schedule a hearing assessment with a qualified professional. Your hearing is precious, and by preserving it, you can continue to engage in meaningful conversations, enjoy the sounds of life, and maintain healthy relationships for years to come.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are making waves in the hearing aid industry. These technologies are transforming how hearing aids work, and providing personalized solutions for people with hearing loss. Let us understand the difference between AI and machine learning, understand their impact on hearing aids, and discuss their benefits to users and hearing care professionals. Let’s get ready to discover the exciting possibilities of AI and machine learning in hearing aids.

The Origins of AI and Machine Learning

AI emerged from the desire to create computers that mimic human cognitive processes. The Turing Test, developed in 1950, aimed to determine if a computer could convince a human that it was interacting with another human. Machine learning, on the other hand, focuses on ongoing learning and problem-solving capabilities beyond human capabilities.

Differentiating AI and Machine Learning

AI involves computer systems performing tasks humans typically do, such as recognizing faces or driving cars. It aims to replicate learned tasks. Machine learning, however, goes beyond imitation and focuses on continuous learning and problem-solving that surpasses human abilities.

AI and Machine Learning in Hearing Aids

AI technology allows hearing aids to synchronize adjustments between both ears or utilize sound classification to optimize features and gain in specific environments. Machine learning takes hearing aid customization further by capturing individual preferences and intentions, enabling personalized adjustments based on real-time interaction with the user.

Widex’s Machine Learning Solution

SoundSense Learn, developed by Widex, utilizes machine learning for individual adjustments of hearing aids. Collecting user input through a simplified interface compares complex combinations of settings to determine the optimal listening settings. Users can achieve immediate gratification in just a few interactive steps and refine their acoustic settings to align with their specific listening intentions.

Benefits of Machine Learning in Hearing Aids

Machine learning empowers hearing aid users to customize and personalize their soundscape environment according to their preferences and intentions. It eliminates the need for users to remember and explain difficult listening situations to their hearing healthcare professional. Additionally, anonymized data collected from the SoundSense Learn feature provides valuable insights for further improvements in hearing aid technology.

Advancements in the Hearing Aid Industry

Widex is the sole manufacturer currently implementing real-time machine learning in hearing aids. While other manufacturers explore features like fall detection and connectivity through sensors and the Internet of Things (IoT), few prioritize sound quality, patient preference, and listening intentions. These new technologies require hearing care professionals to adapt and master them to keep pace with the industry’s evolution.

The Future of Hearing Aids and AI

Integrating advanced AI and machine learning into the hearing aid industry holds immense potential. These technologies can revolutionize sound quality, customization, and patient satisfaction by surpassing what humans can achieve alone. The future of hearing aids will likely see further innovations and advancements driven by brilliant engineers in the industry.

AI and machine learning can potentially enhance the functionality and customization of hearing aids. 

Image from Widex

With features like SoundSense Learn, hearing aid users can experience immediate gratification and personalize their listening experience. As the hearing aid industry continues to evolve, hearing care professionals must embrace and master these technologies to meet the growing expectations of their patients. The future promises exciting advancements that will redefine the hearing experience and improve the lives of individuals with hearing loss.

We understand the challenges of living with hearing loss, and we’re here to help you. Hearlife is dedicated to improving your hearing and quality of life. Experience the life-changing benefits of Widex hearing aids, meticulously designed with advanced technology and customized solutions. We offer hearing tests and assessments for adults, tinnitus management, hearing aids and custom ear plugs. 

Take a proactive step towards better hearing today. Find a branch near you. Contact us at 02-83959144 today to schedule a consultation, and let us guide you on your journey to rediscover the joy of clear and natural sound with Widex. You deserve to hear the world around you with clarity and confidence.

Hearing aids offer personal advantages and contribute to better interactions with those around you. In addition to improving your communication ability, they alleviate the stress and anxiety associated with social interactions. Whether you’re considering getting a hearing aid or unsure about scheduling an appointment with an audiologist, here are some key benefits you can expect from using a hearing aid.

Enhanced Communication with Loved Ones 

Many people opt for hearing aids due to inner ear damage caused by factors like age-related deterioration or prolonged exposure to loud noises. Using a hearing aid must be considered to support the remaining nerve cells in your ear. By amplifying sound vibrations and transmitting them to the brain, a hearing aid enables surviving nerves to compensate for the loss of others, resulting in improved hearing abilities. Additionally, this amplification promotes better mental well-being.

Improved Communication Skills 

Another significant benefit of using a hearing aid is enhancing communication skills. Hearing loss often leads individuals to shy away from conversations out of fear of missing words or misunderstanding what others are saying. Engaging in meaningful discussions with friends or loved ones can be challenging if you only catch fragments of their words.

You can benefit from amplified sound by obtaining a hearing aid from a qualified audiologist, enabling more natural communication. No longer will you have to avoid social gatherings or endure the stress of struggling through a conversation. With increased confidence in your ability to hear and speak, using a hearing aid can be a life-changing experience.

Positive Impact on Mental Health 

Hearing aids have a significant positive impact on the mental health of individuals with hearing loss. By addressing these individuals’ challenges, hearing aids reduce fatigue, frustration, and emotional distress. Improved communication reduces isolation, fostering a sense of connection and belonging. Hearing aids also improve relationships, alleviate strain, and enhance sleep patterns, promoting better mental well-being. Embracing the potential of hearing aids brings hope, vitality, and joy, positively impacting overall well-being and relationships.

Enhancing Communication for Your Loved Ones 

When you have hearing loss, it’s easy to assume that others don’t want to converse with you. However, in most cases, the opposite is true. By withdrawing from family gatherings due to hearing difficulties, you inadvertently create a disconnection that those around you want to overcome.

This strain on relationships can hinder what would otherwise be positive connections. A hearing aid effectively addresses this issue, improving your hearing abilities and facilitating better communication. With the support of a hearing aid, you can reclaim the meaningful conversations you once enjoyed.

In addressing hearing loss issues, Widex is a trusted and innovative brand that offers advanced solutions to improve hearing and enhance communication with loved ones. Widex hearing aids are designed with cutting-edge technology and a focus on user experience, ensuring optimal performance and comfort. 

Here’s how Widex can help address the challenges of hearing loss:

1. Superior Sound Quality: Widex hearing aids are renowned for their exceptional sound quality. Their advanced signal processing capabilities provide clear and natural sound reproduction, allowing you to experience the full richness of conversations and the world around you.
2. Customized Solutions: Widex recognizes that each individual’s hearing needs are unique. Their hearing aids are customizable, allowing for personalized fitting and programming to match your specific hearing loss profile. This tailored approach ensures you receive the optimal amplification and settings for your hearing requirements.
3. Discreet Design: Widex offers a range of hearing aids in various styles, including behind-the-ear (BTE) and receiver-in-canal (RIC) options. These devices are designed to be discreet and comfortable, blending seamlessly with your appearance while providing the necessary amplification for improved hearing.
4. Wireless Connectivity: Many Widex hearing aids come equipped with wireless connectivity features, such as Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone compatibility. This enables you to connect directly to your mobile devices, television, or other audio sources, streaming sound directly into your hearing aids for a convenient and immersive listening experience.
5. Intelligent Sound Processing: Widex hearing aids employ intelligent sound processing algorithms to adapt to different listening environments. They can automatically detect and adjust to noisy environments, reduce background noise, and focus on speech sounds, ensuring you can effortlessly follow conversations even in challenging acoustic situations.
6. Tinnitus Management: Widex also offers innovative solutions for tinnitus management. Their hearing aids can relieve tinnitus symptoms by generating soothing sounds or incorporating sound therapy programs that help distract from the perception of tinnitus, promoting a greater sense of well-being.

With Widex’s commitment to quality, innovation, and personalized care, they are dedicated to helping individuals with hearing loss regain their ability to communicate effectively and reconnect with their loved ones. By choosing Widex, you can trust in their expertise and technology to address the challenges of hearing loss and improve your overall hearing experience.

We understand the challenges of living with hearing loss, and we’re here to help you. Hearlife is dedicated to improving your hearing and quality of life. Experience the life-changing benefits of Widex hearing aids, meticulously designed with advanced technology and customized solutions. We offer hearing tests and assessments for adults, tinnitus management, hearing aids and custom ear plugs. 

Take a proactive step towards better hearing today. Find a branch near you. Contact us at 02-83959144 today to schedule a consultation, and let us guide you on your journey to rediscover the joy of clear and natural sound with Widex. You deserve to hear the world around you with clarity and confidence.

Hearing loss is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can occur gradually over time or suddenly due to ageing, exposure to loud noises, ear infections, or certain medical conditions. Often, individuals may only be aware of their hearing loss once it reaches an advanced stage. Regular hearing assessments are crucial for early detection and intervention.

Recognizing these symptoms can help you take proactive steps towards maintaining healthy hearing:

Difficulty understanding speech

One of the earliest signs of hearing loss is experiencing difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments. You may find it challenging to follow conversations, mainly when multiple people are speaking or when there is background noise. Struggling to hear and comprehend what others are saying can be frustrating and lead to social withdrawal or communication breakdowns.

Frequently asking for repetition

If you frequently ask others to repeat themselves or say “What?” or “Pardon?” during conversations, it may indicate hearing loss. Often, individuals with hearing impairment struggle to catch certain sounds or words, leading to the need for constant repetition. This can be particularly noticeable when conversing over the phone or in poor acoustics.

Turning up the volume

Do you often turn up the volume on your television, radio, or other electronic devices to higher levels than others find comfortable? Adjusting the volume excessively can signal that you are compensating for hearing loss. If your family or friends frequently comment on the loudness of your devices, it’s time to consider a hearing assessment.

Tinnitus

Tinnitus refers to the perception of ringing, buzzing, hissing, or other phantom ear sounds. While tinnitus can have various causes, it is often associated with hearing loss. If you experience persistent tinnitus, especially if accompanied by other signs of hearing impairment, such as difficulty hearing conversations, it is essential to have your hearing evaluated.

Withdrawal from social situations

Untreated hearing loss can lead to feelings of isolation and withdrawal from social activities. Struggling to hear and communicate effectively can make social interactions challenging and exhausting. If you find yourself avoiding gatherings, parties, or group conversations due to difficulties understanding others, assessing your hearing health is crucial.

Misunderstanding or misinterpreting conversations

Hearing loss can lead to miscommunication and misunderstandings. You may frequently need to be more accurate with what others say, respond inappropriately, or provide unrelated responses. These communication challenges can strain relationships, impact work performance, and diminish the overall quality of life.

Exhaustion after social interactions

If you frequently feel mentally and physically drained after social interactions, it could result from straining to hear and comprehend conversations. Individuals with untreated hearing loss often expend significant energy trying to follow discussions, leading to increased fatigue. If you regularly feel exhausted after engaging in conversations, it is advisable to schedule a hearing assessment.

Recognizing the signs that indicate you may be due for a hearing assessment is crucial for maintaining healthy hearing and overall well-being. If you experience difficulty understanding speech, frequently ask for repetition, constantly adjust the volume on electronic devices, or suffer from tinnitus, it is time to prioritize your hearing health. Similarly, withdrawal from social situations, misunderstandings during conversations, and post-interaction exhaustion are all signs that warrant a hearing assessment.

Remember, early detection and intervention are vital in managing hearing loss effectively. Consult a qualified audiologist or healthcare professional to evaluate your hearing and discuss potential treatment options. Addressing hearing loss proactively improves your quality of life, enhances communication, and maintains healthy relationships.

If you recognize any signs mentioned in this article, don’t hesitate to schedule a hearing assessment. The assessment will involve a series of tests to measure your hearing sensitivity, identify the type and severity of hearing loss, and determine the most suitable course of action. This may include hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or other interventions tailored to your needs.

Remember, hearing loss can affect individuals of all ages, so it’s essential to prioritize regular hearing assessments, regardless of age or lifestyle. Even if you don’t exhibit any signs of hearing loss, it’s still recommended to have your hearing checked periodically to detect any changes early on.

Steps to protect and preserve your hearing health

In addition to scheduling a hearing assessment, there are other steps you can take to protect and preserve your hearing health.

These include:

1. Minimizing exposure to loud noises: Limit your exposure to loud sounds or use hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, when in noisy environments or when engaging in activities like concerts, sporting events, or operating power tools.
2. Practising good ear hygiene: Keep your ears clean and dry, and avoid inserting foreign objects into your ears that can cause damage or increase the risk of infection.
3. Managing underlying health conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease, can contribute to hearing loss. Proper management of these conditions can help reduce the risk of hearing impairment.
4. Educating yourself: Stay informed about the potential risks and causes of hearing loss and the available treatments and technologies. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions about your hearing health.
5. Avoid using headphones or earbuds at high volumes: The potential risk can be extreme with excessive use of high volumes so take control of your your hearing health and as much as possible, lower down audio volumes while using headphones or earbuds.
6. Take breaks from loud noise if you are exposed to it for extended periods of time: Wear ear protection when you are around loud noise, such as at concerts or sporting events.
7. Get your hearing checked regularly, even if you don’t think you have a problem.

Remember, addressing hearing loss promptly can significantly improve your quality of life and overall well-being. By recognizing the signs that indicate you may be due for a hearing assessment and taking proactive steps, you are prioritizing your hearing health and investing in a better future.

Take the first step today and schedule a hearing assessment with a qualified professional. Your hearing is precious, and by preserving it, you can continue to engage in meaningful conversations, enjoy the sounds of life, and maintain healthy relationships for years to come.

Hearing loss is a permanent condition that can’t be undone. That’s why hearing protection should be your new best friend.

You’re rushing through the street and you pass a loud construction site. You notice that the workers are all wearing earmuffs – that’s because hearing protection is essential for those workers in order to avoid hearing loss or tinnitus.

There are two things that most commonly cause hearing loss: ageing and noise. Chances are that you won’t find the fountain of youth anytime soon, so there’s not much you can do about ageing (but when you do start to lose your hearing because of ageing, it’s a good idea to see a hearing care professional to improve your hearing). Noise, however – that’s where you can actually do something to avoid damaging your hearing.

Noise affects your hearing – but where’s the limit?

Every day you’re exposed to sound that qualifies as noise – even if you don’t really notice it. At school or work, in traffic, mowing your lawn – or even hearing the neighbour’s dog barking – that could be noise. It all depends on the volume, but that’s not so easy to predict.

A normal conversation is at 60 dB on average. A jet plane at take-off can reach as high as 140 dB. The trouble is when the sound that’s too loud goes on for a long time or happens repeatedly for a long time.

Many countries have enacted regulations about the noise limits that workers are allowed to be exposed to during a working day – to protect workers from getting any kind of hearing reduction or impairment because of the work environment. Usually the noise level cannot exceed 85 dB.

If you don’t work in a noisy environment, situations you should pay special attention to include going to concerts, watching fireworks that are close by, flying, or listening to music or podcasts with earphones at too high a volume.

What happens when noise affects my hearing?

The ear is a complex organ, full of important sensory cells that help us hear and help the brain interpret sound. If the sensory cells experience the sound as too loud, they may be damaged – or simply die. The problem is that there’s no way to revive them. And that may mean permanent hearing damage.

DID YOU KNOW?
Even the slightest, unnoticeable rise in decibels can have a huge effect on your hearing. A three-decibel rise in volume could double the risk of damage to your ears.

How do I protect my hearing?

Some of the time you can’t be prepared for noise – traffic or road work may surprise you. Other times, you’ll know that you’re going to take in a lot of noise. Like when you’re planning to go to a concert, getting ready for those New Year’s fireworks or going to mow the lawn. These are the times when you should take good care to protect your hearing.

Hearing protection comes in different forms, but, most of the time, simple earplugs will keep the damaging noise at bay. If your ears are sensitive to earplugs, you could try noise-cancelling headphones or earmuffs. They’re bigger, but they are also pretty comfortable. If possible, you should also consider taking breaks from all the action and choosing seats (in planes or at concerts) that are not too close to the noise.

Care to learn more?

Download our free ebooklet about noise and hearing now.

CAN YOU STOP YOUR EARS RINGING BY CUTTING BACK ON CHOCOLATE AND COFFEE?

Or is that just another one of the myths about tinnitus? Listen to our new podcast series and find out.

Search the Internet, and you can find lots of advice and recommendations for dealing with tinnitus. The question is: which ones should you choose? And do any of them actually work?

Dr Pawel Jastreboff can understand the confusion. In his opinion, the Internet is overwhelmed with information – and misinformation. “There’s a lot of myths on the internet, and numerous people with a cure for tinnitus,” he says. So what can you do about it?

Learning to cope

There are several ways to tackle it. One approach that has achieved good results was developed by Dr Jastreboff himself. It’s called Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) and is a process of learning to cope with your tinnitus on a conscious and subconscious level.

He likens it to the sound of raindrops falling on a roof. At first, you notice it. Then, after a while, your attention moves to something else and you forget about it. This is what he calls habituation.

How it starts

Tinnitus generally starts with exposure to loud noise. From then on, it’s hard to understand and just as difficult to cure. “The brain does have a plan for loud noise and music. But, for some unfortunate people, these mechanisms don’t work. They become the chronic tinnitus patients,”  Dr Jastreboff explains. “Transient tinnitus is when the ringing comes and goes. To understand it, we have to travel deep into the brain.”

Tune in to Listen up!

Millions of people all over the world suffer from tinnitus. If you’d like to learn more about the condition and how to treat it, tune into the Widex podcast Listen up!