Which treatment helps against tinnitus?

Ringing in the ears, also known as tinnitus, can be an annoying and sometimes debilitating condition. While there is no cure that works for everyone, there are several treatments and strategies that can help reduce symptoms and ease their impact on daily life.

The effectiveness varies from person to person, depending on the cause and severity of the tinnitus. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) combines counseling with sound therapy. The goal is to reduce the perception of the ringing in the ears and teach the brain to perceive the sound as less disruptive.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on changing negative thoughts about tinnitus. Sound therapy uses external sounds to mask or reduce the ringing. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are sometimes prescribed to manage the emotional effects of tinnitus.

For people with tinnitus who also have hearing loss, hearing aids can help. They amplify ambient sounds, making the tinnitus less noticeable. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) uses magnetic pulses to stimulate certain parts of the brain.

Stress and anxiety can make tinnitus worse. Methods such as breathing exercises and relaxation techniques can help reduce the burden of tinnitus.

If tinnitus is caused by a specific medical condition, treating the underlying cause may provide relief. It is advisable to consult a physician or audiologist to determine the best treatment options.

Source: https://health.ec.europa.eu/document/download/9eb31fe0-a7b8-4128-bd19-3105af2686cd_en

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-10-17 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025