Tinnitus, often described as ringing, buzzing, or hissing in the ears, can be frustrating. It can make it hard to focus, relax, or even sleep. While there isn’t a cure, hearing aid technology is often helpful for managing tinnitus. How can it help? Let’s look at how hearing aids can ease tinnitus symptoms.
How Hearing Aids Work for Tinnitus
Hearing aids are small devices worn in or behind the ear that amplify sounds around you. For tinnitus, they help in a few ways:
- Masking the noise: Tinnitus is more noticeable in quiet places. Hearing aids amplify background sounds, which can cover up the ringing or buzzing.
- Improving hearing: When you have hearing loss, your brain works harder to hear sounds. This can make tinnitus seem worse. Hearing aids reduce this strain by making it easier to hear other sounds.
- Sound therapy: Some hearing aids have built-in sound therapy features. These play calming sounds, like ocean waves or white noise, to distract from tinnitus.
Types of Hearing Aids for Tinnitus
Not all hearing aids are the same; some are made specifically to help with tinnitus. Here are three common types of hearing aids that can help:
Behind-The-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
BTE hearing aids sit behind the ears and are attached to an earmold that fits inside the ear canals. They are powerful and often include programs to help manage tinnitus.
- Best for: People with moderate to severe hearing loss and tinnitus.
- Advantages: They offer strong amplification and long battery life.
In-The-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids
ITE hearing aids sit completely inside your ear. They are custom-made to fit you. Even though they’re small, they can still have tinnitus-relief features.
- Best for: People with mild to moderate hearing loss and tinnitus.
- Advantages: These hearing aids are less noticeable and easy to use.
Receiver-In-The-Ear (RITE) Hearing Aids
RITE hearing aids are similar to BTE hearing aids; the receivers are placed inside the ear canals, which offer a more natural sound.
- Best for: People with mild to severe hearing loss and tinnitus.
- Advantages: These hearing aids provide clear sound and a comfortable fit.
Features to Look for in Hearing Aids for Tinnitus
When buying hearing aids to help with tinnitus, it’s important to look for specific features. These will make sure you get the best relief.
Tinnitus Masking Programs
Some hearing aids have built-in programs that play soft, calming sounds to cover the tinnitus. These can be customized to your preference and are helpful in quiet environments.
Sound Amplification
By boosting everyday sounds, hearing aids help make tinnitus less noticeable. This shift in focus can make a big difference.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Many modern hearing aids can connect to your phone or other devices through Bluetooth. This lets you stream calming sounds, music, or podcasts directly to your ears.
Can Hearing Aids Cure Tinnitus?
Hearing aids do not cure tinnitus; they can help manage it. Many people find that hearing aids reduce the loudness of their tinnitus by amplifying external sounds. Over time, this can make tinnitus less distracting.
Every person’s tinnitus is different. It’s important to talk to an audiologist about your symptoms. A hearing professional can help you find the right hearing aid to ease your tinnitus and improve your quality of life.
Hearing Aids in Austin, TX
Hearing aids can help manage tinnitus by masking internal sounds, amplifying background noise, and offering sound therapy. Different hearing aids, like BTE, ITE, and RITE, have features designed to help with tinnitus. Though hearing aids don’t cure tinnitus, they can make living with it easier.
If you’re struggling with tinnitus, contact RK Audiology today. With two locations in Austin, TX — Westlake and South Austin — the experts at RK Audiology can help you find the right hearing aids to manage your tinnitus and improve your hearing.