Bethlehem, Pa— Neuromonics, the manufacturer of the Neuromonics Tinnitus Treatment, has recently published "8 Tips on Dealing With Tinnitus Diagnosis," eight consumer-oriented tips to help those who have been recently diagnosed with tinnitus.
Curtis Amann, a Neuromonics spokesperson, commented in the press release, “Today, there is real hope for tinnitus sufferers, with greater understanding of the condition, more audiologists with knowledge, and more effective treatments than ever before," says Amann.
Amann offers the following eight tips that hearing health professionals may find helpful to give to their patients after informing them of their tinnitus diagnosis.
1) Take time to review and evaluate. Tinnitus is usually not a sign of a serious, ongoing medical condition, but it is important to visit an audiologist or ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT) interested and experienced in tinnitus treatment to rule out possible causes that may benefit from prescribed medication or surgery.
2) Do not give up. More research has been conducted over the last 10 years than in any other time period in an effort to provide hope and answers to tinnitus patients. Tinnitus is no longer a condition that people "just have to learn to live with." Sufferers can seek out a qualified medical professional who can review specific needs and help find the best solution available.
3) Reduce further damage. Tinnitus sufferers can protect themselves from further auditory damage by avoiding loud places, and by using earplugs when noise levels exceed safe listening levels.
4) Recognize that tinnitus is a multi-pronged condition. Tinnitus consists of an audiological component, a neurological component, and an emotional component. For effective treatment, all three components need to be addressed. When treating tinnitus, it is important to look at the condition from a broad perspective and take steps to address the problem from all sides.
5) Create an enriching sound environment. Tinnitus sufferers can help take the focus off their tinnitus perception by filling their environments with pleasant and relaxing sounds. Some people obtain a great deal of relief by having a radio on in the background, at home or work, that fills in the quiet times that may reveal tinnitus sounds. Others find relaxing sounds, such as those of the ocean or a waterfall, to be relaxing. Music can be helpful as well.
6) Understand the "triangle of treatment." For most patients to achieve significant positive changes in their tinnitus, treatment is most successful when it involves three components: some type of ear-level intervention or sound therapy; a professional who understands the patient and is willing and able to work with them; and equally important, a patient who wants to get better, and is willing to do their part in the process.
7) Be patient. Because tinnitus affects people in different degrees and ways, and because each person will react differently to a given treatment, it is important for individuals to exercise patience. Some treatments can take a few weeks, or even a few months, to have a positive effect. Individuals can keep an open dialog with their treating medical professional to make sure they are receiving the best treatments for them.
8) Develop a support system. Tinnitus sufferers are wise to educate their families, friends, and co-workers about their condition, explaining any known triggers or situations that are especially difficult. Others who suffer from tinnitus can offer support and suggestions. Organizations such as the American Tinnitus Association offer advice and information on support groups for compassion, companionship, and coping strategies. Some companies that provide effective tinnitus treatments have online blogs or social networking opportunities to share ideas and input.
Amann added in the press statement, "Working with an audiologist or ENT who is trained in tinnitus treatment, and who keeps up with the latest developments, is critical for the tinnitus sufferer," he says. "Those suffering from tinnitus need to know there is plenty of hope out there for effective relief today."
SOURCE: Neuromonics Inc
