White noise has proved to be effective in masking the sounds produced by tinnitus as it contains equal high and lower frequencies, so is more effective at masking the higher pitched sounds experienced by sufferers. White noise generators are also commonly known as Maskers, and work by generating white noise sound which can be heard by the sufferer. The volume is usually set to a level either just below or at the same level as the tinnitus, and generators can produce a range of sound frequencies. They should not be used to try to block out the tinnitus noises, but to condition the subconscious auditory system to ignore the tinnitus.

Sufferers may be prescribed a wearable white noise generator, which is worn all day, but not generally at night. They are designed to fit into the ear, and look a lot like hearing aid devices. These should be fitted and the volume set by a Healthcare professional.

Other white noise generators are designed to sit on a table or bedside cabinet top, and can be used during the night. This is particularly effective if your tinnitus is worse during the night, and can help to overcome associated insomnia. The example shown above is a Sound Conditioner Sound Screen SleepMate Electro-Mechanical White Noise Machine

It may be worth placing a radio next to your bed, tuned to a frequency between stations to that the static hiss of white noise is heard. Turn the volume low so that the noise is just audible; don’t be tempted to try to turn it up loud to block the tinnitus out as this could cause long term damage to the auditory system.

If you have an MP3 player or iPod, software containing pure white noise can now be purchased for download. I believe that CDs are available too.

White Noise Generators can be an effective way in managing the symptoms of tinnitus, although they should not be seen as a cure.

Sound Therapy works by reducing contrast between the noises associated with tinnitus and background noises. This can help to make the sounds of tinnitus less intrusive, particularly during quiet times such as at night. It uses specially recorded soundtracks of various sounds which vary in tone, which stimulates and heals the inner ear, making it more receptive to high frequency sounds which are then processed by the brain. This process works by recharging the brain, providing relief from the sounds associated with tinnitus and creating a sense of relaxation and calm.

Sound Therapy can also improve hearing loss caused by industrial noise, promote relaxation and freedom from stress and promote restful sleep.

Sound Therapy can be used in the form of CDs, recordings for MP3 and iPod devices, computer downloads or special sound generators. Environmental sounds can also be used, either those occurring naturally or recordings of running water, waves or other soothing natural sounds. There are a number of pre-recorded CDs available.

Sound generators are also known as maskers, and there are two types; those designed to sit on a desk or table, and those designed to be portable. They can provide a choice of sounds, and can be used during the night. Portable sound generators should always be fitted by a specialist, who will also ensure that they are set to an appropriate volume.

Sound Therapy should not be used to try to drown out the tinnitus, as this could cause greater long term problems. The best way of using Sound Therapy is to set it at a level either just below or at the same level as the tinnitus, as this will eventually help to habituate to the tinnitus and establish a sleeping routine.

The sound generator shown above is the Sound Oasis Sound Therapy System

The most common Tinnitus sounds reported are;

Ringing- usually a continuous high pitched note, which is why Tinnitus is sometimes referred to as ‘Ringing in the ears’. This can resemble the high pitched ringing sound emitted by some electrical equipment such as television sets.

Buzzing, whistling, hissing and humming sounds are also commonly heard.

Other sufferers report sounds like rushing water, wooshing type noises or the sound made by a seashell held close to the ear.

Others still hear sounds resembling chirping noises, roaring, fluttering or noises resembling a chainsaw. Rarer still are sufferers who hear sounds resembling musical notes or Morse code.

Sounds which appear to beat in time with the pulse are known as ‘Pulsating Tinnitus’. Tinnitus sounds can also worsen if the sufferer is under stress or undertaking physical activity.

Different sounds heard can give a clue to the cause of the tinnitus; the ringing and buzzing noises may be linked with inner ear damage which may be triggered by exposure to noise. Whooshing or roaring noises may indicate stress induced Tinnitus.

Tinnitus sounds are most commonly heard in both ears, but some sufferers report hearing the sounds in one ear only.