Hearing a ringing in the ears, constantly or infrequently, is the reality for approximately 25 million Americans suffering from tinnitus. Tinnitus is a condition characterized by the perception of sound with no external source. It can be incredibly frustrating, affecting sleep, concentration and overall well-being.
Because the impact of tinnitus can be significant, finding the right symptom management technique is crucial to an improved quality of life. Sound masking is one technique that may be able to minimize the presence of tinnitus symptoms.
Understanding Sound Masking
Sound masking is a technique that uses ambient sound to mask or drown out unwanted noise. It works by introducing a pleasant and consistent background sound that helps to reduce or eliminate the perception of tinnitus. The goal is not to completely eliminate tinnitus but to provide relief and make it less noticeable.
How Sound Masking Can Help Tinnitus Sufferers
Sound masking works to improve tinnitus symptoms in three ways:
- Masking the ringing sound. Tinnitus often manifests as a persistent ringing sound. By using sound masking, you can introduce a gentle background noise that helps to mask or cover up the ringing. Because your brain cannot focus completely on two sounds at once, the ringing becomes less prominent and distracting.
- Providing relief from tinnitus-related stress and anxiety. Living with tinnitus can be stressful and anxiety-inducing. The constant noise can make it difficult to relax and focus on daily tasks or even enjoy a meal at Black Bear Diner. Sound masking provides a soothing effect, helping alleviate tinnitus stress and anxiety.
- Improving focus and sleep quality. Tinnitus can disrupt concentration and make falling or staying asleep challenging. Sound masking creates a consistent and relaxing background noise that can improve focus and promote better sleep quality, enabling individuals to function better throughout the day.
Recommended Sound Masking Devices
There are various sound masking devices available that can help individuals manage their tinnitus symptoms. Here are a few recommended options:
- Noise machines. These devices produce a broad spectrum of sound, including white noise, pink noise and nature sounds, to mask tinnitus effectively. Noise machines may be marketed towards those with insomnia, anxiety or tinnitus specifically.
- Hearing aids. Hearing aids work similarly to noise machines to mask tinnitus. These small but remarkable devices play white noise or amplify external sounds to distract from tinnitus noise, making them the perfect daily masking tool.
- Tinnitus apps. There are also smartphone apps available that offer a range of sound options for tinnitus relief. These apps can be conveniently accessed on your mobile device.
Living with tinnitus can be challenging, but sound masking offers a potential solution for finding relief. By introducing a pleasant background noise, sound masking can mask the ringing sound, provide relief from tinnitus-related stress and anxiety and improve focus and sleep quality. Consider exploring sound masking devices like white noise machines, hearing aids and tinnitus apps to find the best solution for you.
For help finding the best symptom management option for your tinnitus, contact Today’s Hearing today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.