Tinnitus is commonly described as “ringing in the ears” but it can actually manifest as almost any type of persistent sound, from buzzing through hissing to shrieking, that not only interferes with hearing but, in extreme, cases also can seriously impact quality of life. As many as 1 in 5 people suffer from it to some degree.
Researchers have not fully pinned down the cause and there is no known cure. But new treatments are becoming available all the time. Recent thinking includes listening to certain types of sound that mask the tinnitus or even reduce it, cochlear implants, and a new technique calls acoustic neural stimulation – a device that sends a signal to stimulate change in key circuits of the brain.
If you suffer from this disorder, speak to your physician. You can also learn more from the American Tinnitus Association – www.ata.org