Tinnitus can be experienced in several different ways. For some people, a mere shake of the head will cause the sounds to disappear. In other cases, Tinnitus can be severe and the symptoms can be debilitating.
At present, there is no known cure for Tinnitus. Research is ongoing and symptomatic relief can be achieved through several different treatments.
It can be difficult to pin down the sounds of Tinnitus, especially since the sounds can manifest differently to each person. Whether your case of Tinnitus results as buzzing, whooshing, or ringing, here are the four different types of annoying conditions known as Tinnitus.
How can Tinnitus be Treated?
There are various treatment methods for tinnitus. The most effective and ones most predominantly used are:
– CBT (Cognitive behavioral therapy)
– Biofeedback
– Masking
– Tinnitus retraining therapy
The above four treatments mentioned are the most common treatments, but they are not the only ones. There are many other treatment options available, and their effectiveness depends on the severity of the condition and what type of tinnitus it is. Fortunately, there are customizable tinnitus treatment programs for everyone. This means that your unique tinnitus and condition can be treated with individualized care. But first, you need to know what type of Tinnitus you have. So, let’s look at the following:
What Are the 4 Different Types of Tinnitus?
- Subjective Tinnitus
This form of tinnitus is the most commonly reported. As the name suggests, only the person affected can hear the subjected symptoms. These symptoms usually manifest after the person is exposed to excessive noise. Although this type of Tinnitus can be quick to onset, it can disappear within 3 – 12 months. In some cases, however, the condition never goes away.
- Neurological Tinnitus
This form of tinnitus usually results because of other existing disorders, particularly Meniere’s disease. This is because Meniere’s disease and other similar diseases cause imbalances in the brain’s auditory functions.
- Somatic Tinnitus
Related to the sensory system, Somatic Tinnitus is usually caused or worsened by other conditions related to the sensory system.
- Objective Tinnitus
Objective Tinnitus is the rarest form of Tinnitus. The two primary contributing factors to this form of Tinnitus are vascular deformities and involuntary muscle contractions.
Objective Tinnitus is often just a symptom of the above-mentioned conditions and therefore can disappear completely when the root cause is identified and treated.
Unlike the other forms of Tinnitus, Objective Tinnitus can be heard by other people. It is also unique in the fact that it is the only type of Tinnitus that can be treated and permanently eradicated.
Statistics show that at least 50% of people who have Tinnitus also have an existing inner-ear condition. This means that the hearing impairment could result in a loss of hearing over time. If you are experiencing Tinnitus, it is best to approach qualified practitioners that can diagnose your condition and offer the appropriate care and treatment.
