An Introduction To Tinnitus Sound Therapy

Tinnitus can be a greatly distressing condition, which can have a huge impact upon the lives of sufferers. Although there is no known cure as yet, a number of treatments are available to provide relief from tinnitus symptoms. One treatment currently attracting a lot of attention is Sound Therapy.

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