Premier Hearing Solutions specializes in the evaluation and management of tinnitus.
TINNITUS (ti-NIGHT-us or TIN-i-tus) is the perception of sound in the ears or head where no external source is present. Many people will experience it temporarily or intermittently. Most people seeking help experience this "ringing in the ears" 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
How is tinnitus assessed?
In order to determine potential causes of tinnitus, Premier Hearing Solutions begins with a basic comprehensive hearing evaluation which includes otoscopy, pure tone audiometry, speech audiometry and immitance measure. Additionally, a detailed case history and questionnaire is completed and reviewed to identify its precise severity and effects on daily life. Additional measurements may include: otoacoustic emissions, acoustic reflexology, loudness discomfort levels, pitch and loudness match of the perceived tinnitus, and the minimum amount of other sounds that can mask or cover-up the tinnitus.
Prior to an audiological evaluation you should always seek medical treatment to rule out possible medical causes of the tinnitus.
Treatment options:
There are many types of treatment options available for individuals suffering from tinnitus. Premier Hearing Solutions offers a version of tinnitus retraining therapy with or without sound generators in addition to the more traditional hearing aids and masking devices.
What is Tinnitus Retraining Therapy?
Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT) combines low-level, steady background sounds with one-on-one patient/clinician directive counseling. The patient enriches his or her background sound for a minimum of eight hours a day usually with in-the-ear sound generators. This combination of therapies helps people habituate (essentially grow unaware of) the sounds of their tinnitus. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy can take 12-24 months before a patient no longer needs the in-the-ear devices.