Several dietary supplements have recently been touted as a good way to stop tinnitus (ringing in the ears). But in the January 2010 issue they warn that most of the scientific research that has been conducted shows inconsistent or no benefit from these supplements in reducing tinnitus. They note that there are many ways to address tinnitus that should be done first before even considering trying a supplement. There is soft evidence that the use of lipoflavinoids and antioxidants provide benefit to sudden hearing loss (and therefore tinnitus); however, this is from research primarily in animal studies.
In the majority of cases, tinnitus is related to hearing loss; however, 20% of the time individuals with tinnitus have normal to borderline normal hearing. Anyone who is suffering from tinnitus should have a hearing test by an audiologist and an evaluation by their otologist to rule out any possible medical causes of tinnitus such as hypertension, a thyroid condition, or ear disorders such as Menieres disease or (rarely) an acoustic neuroma. Once medical conditions are ruled out, you can then consider meeting with an audiologist to discuss your treatment options. At the Center for Hearing and Communication, Susan Adams, Clinical Supervisor of Audiology and Coordinator of the Tinnitus and Hyperacusis Center provides Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT). Susan says, “I’ve been working with clients suffering from tinnitus for over 12 years and have seen the majority of them obtain relief from their tinnitus. They can enjoy life, sleep, work, and fully participate in life.”
For more information email Susan.