TINNITUS DETECTIVE

Unlocking the Mystery of Tinnitus

TINNITUS

The Not So Silent Epidemic

Welcome to the Tinnitus Detective

Did you know that an astonishingly 15% of the population is affected by tinnitus? This staggering statistic highlights the undeniable significance of this often ignored yet widespread issue. If you or a loved one is dealing with tinnitus and seeking reliable information, then Tinnitus Insights will be your comprehensive resource when it comes to understanding tinnitus and its treatments.

Tinnitus is a symptom of a variety of underlying causes

Tinnitus, in and of itself, is not a disease, but a symptom. Unfortunately, it can be hard to treat, because there are so many different things that can cause tinnitus. And everyone’s tinnitus is different. It can be as simple as an excess buildup of ear wax, hearing loss, loud noises or medications. But it can also be caused by head or neck injuries, TMJ, Meniere’s disease, high blood pressure or vascular issues. Acoustic Neuroma, tumors or brain issues. The list goes on and on. Thus, you can see why it is important to talk to a healthcare professional.

Basically, it is your bodies “Check Engine” Light

Tinnitus is often referred to as your “Check Engine” light, just like your cars check engine light it is there to warn you of an underlying issue that needs attention. Tinnitus can be a signal to warn you that there may be an underlying health or hearing problem. Just as a responsible driver would take their vehicle to a professional for maintenance to find out why the check engine light is on. It would be wise to go to a healthcare professional or audiologist when your “Check Engine” light is on.

Demystifying This Thing Called Tinnitus

Tinnitus, often described as persistent ringing, buzzing, humming, roaring, rushing, clicking, or even the sound of crickets, is a condition that affects the lives of millions. Yet, for so many, it still remains shrouded in mystery. Our goal here is to demystify this often-misunderstood phenomenon. By providing research-backed articles and expert insights, we’ll unravel some of the complexities of tinnitus. So, whether you are looking to understand tinnitus, seeking effective treatments (medically or alternatively), or simply want to connect with a supportive community, The Tinnitus Detective will be your trusted resource. Won’t you join us on this journey to understand the truths and dispel the myths surrounding tinnitus?

Purpose

The purpose of this website is to search and find options for you. To help you understand what tinnitus is, as well as some of the causes. To provide as much information as possible for you to talk to your healthcare professional and pursue the right options for you or your loved one. I started this journey because I have friends and loved ones who suffer with tinnitus. Thus, the reason for this website is to pass this information along to you. I will provide links to webpages outside of this website with information on case studies, trials and articles. I will also provide information and links for a more holistic approach including different types of products such as vitamins and supplements as well as essential oils. Information and links about the efficacy of alternatives such as Hypnosis, EFT, NLP, Reiki and Energy work. As well as anything else that I can find.

Increased Anxiety and Depression

Unfortunately, many tinnitus sufferers aren’t aware of the treatment options available and eventually finding themselves battling anxiety and depression. Tinnitus and suicide are an all-too-common combination.

Disclaimer

The Tinnitus Detective is committed to providing reliable, evidence-based information for our visitors. We strive to offer valuable resources and recommendations that can assist you in understanding tinnitus and its management. It’s important to note that to support the maintenance and development of our website, we may include affiliate links to products or services. These links are provided for your convenience and do not affect the information or recommendations we present. Nor does it mean that we endorse these products or services. We want to be transparent with our visitors: The Tinnitus Detective may earn a commission or financial compensation when you make a purchase or take specific actions through these links. However, please be assured that our primary focus is to deliver accurate and unbiased content. While we strive to provide informative and helpful content, we are not medical professionals. The information on this website is for informational use only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Your trust is of the utmost importance to us, and we are dedicated to delivering valuable insights and resources. If you have any questions or concerns about our use of affiliate links or financial compensation, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Your feedback helps us maintain the highest standards of transparency and integrity in the information that we provide.

List of

Medical Options

Here is a list of some of the medical options currently available for tinnitus sufferers. I will be adding to this list as I run across any other tinnitus options and treatments both old and new. As you go through this website, I will be going into more detail about each one of these options. Remember the importance of consulting with your healthcare professionals to ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatment for your specific needs. Keeping in mind that this website is for informational purposes only, providing you with options to discuss with your healthcare professional.

  1. Hearing Aids: For those with hearing loss-related tinnitus, hearing aids can amplify external sounds, making the tinnitus less noticeable. Success rates vary depending on individual circumstances.
  2. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT): TRT combines counseling and sound therapy to help individuals habituate to the tinnitus. Success rates can be significant, but it requires commitment.
  3. Cochlear Implants: These are suitable for severe cases of tinnitus associated with hearing loss. Success rates vary, but they can improve hearing and reduce tinnitus perception.
  4. Medications: Some medications like antidepressants or antianxiety drugs may be prescribed to alleviate tinnitus symptoms. Success rates vary, and side effects should be considered.
  5. Sound Masking Devices: Devices that emit low-level background noise to mask tinnitus sounds. Success rates depend on individual response.
  6. Experimental Treatments: These include transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and deep brain stimulation (DBS). Success rates may vary, and these treatments are typically considered when other options fail.
  7. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals manage the emotional aspects of tinnitus. It can be effective in reducing distress caused by tinnitus.
  8. Surgical Procedures: In rare cases, surgery might be an option to correct underlying issues causing tinnitus, such as tumors or vascular problems.

Success rates for these treatments can vary widely due to the individualized nature of tinnitus. It’s crucial to work closely with your healthcare professional to determine the most suitable approach for their specific situation.

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Read more: The Not-So-Silent Epidemic
From a channel with a health professional licensed in the US

BECKMAN INSTITUTE

Researchers at the University of Illinois use MRI imaging to explore the link between tinnitus, hearing loss, and blood flow in the brain

These Ear Doctors React to Tinnitus Home Remedies as they go through several clips of some different home remedies.

In this video for Tinnitus Awareness Week, John House, MD and Kevin Peng, MD give an authentic response to various tinnitus remedies that exist on the internet. Tinnitus is a difficult, nebulous symptom, so we hope to bring some clarity to the issue and offer suggestions that may help. Videos Watched:    • People with Tinnitus try the “Reddit …      • Easy Tinnitus Treatment – Ask Doctor Jo      • Ringing in ear (tinnitus) cured by th…      • Getting Tinnitus Relief Using Tinnitu…       • How to get rid of Tinnitus naturally   The House Institute Foundation is funded entirely by public donations. Help us continue our education program by donating today! https://houseinstitute.com/foundation…            

Holistic/Alternative Options

I will be going into more detail about these options as well and updating this list as I run across other holistic and complimentary alternatives. Here are some holistic approaches and complementary therapies for tinnitus:

  1. Acupuncture: Some people find relief from tinnitus through acupuncture, which involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body. Success rates vary.
  2. Herbal Supplements: Ginkgo biloba and zinc supplements are sometimes used to manage tinnitus. Results can vary, and it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements.
  3. Diet and Lifestyle Changes: Reducing caffeine, alcohol, and sodium intake, as well as managing stress through techniques like yoga and meditation, may help some individuals.
  4. Sound Therapy: Listening to calming sounds like nature sounds or white noise can provide temporary relief by masking tinnitus sounds.
  5. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (Holistic Version): Similar to medical TRT but without the use of hearing aids, this holistic approach combines counseling and sound therapy to habituate to tinnitus.
  6. Hypnotherapy: Some individuals explore hypnotherapy to reduce stress and anxiety related to tinnitus, potentially providing relief.
  7. Tinnitus Apps: Various smartphone apps offer tinnitus relief exercises and sound therapy options that individuals can use on their own.
  8. Aromatherapy: Some people find relaxation and relief from tinnitus-related stress by using essential oils like lavender or chamomile.
  9. Biofeedback: This technique teaches individuals how to control physiological processes, potentially helping them manage tinnitus-related stress.

More Alternative and Unconventional Options

These are options that have been explored for tinnitus, even if they may be considered far-fetched or experimental:

  1. Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): In rare cases, ECT has been tried for severe tinnitus, but this one is highly controversial and only considered when other treatments have failed.
  2. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT): Some individuals have undergone HBOT in pressurized chambers, with the belief that increased oxygen levels might improve tinnitus symptoms. But evidence for its effectiveness is limited.
  3. Chiropractic Adjustments: Some have tried chiropractic care to alleviate tinnitus, believing that spinal adjustments could influence the condition. However, scientific support is lacking.
  4. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): LLLT involves using low-level lasers on or around the ear. It’s an emerging field, some studies suggest potential benefits, but more research is needed.
  5. Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS): VNS, involves implanting a device to stimulate the vagus nerve, and although it is being explored as an alternative treatment for tinnitus in clinical trials, it’s not widely available.
  6. Cannabis and CBD: Some individuals have reported tinnitus symptom relief using cannabis or CBD products, but more research on their effectiveness needs to be done.
  7. Binaural Beats: Some have experimented with binaural beats audio recordings, claiming they help reduce tinnitus perception. But scientific evidence is inconclusive.
  8. Homeopathy: Homeopathic remedies are used by some individuals, although their effectiveness is widely debated and lacks scientific backing.

Remember that this website is to provide information on as many treatment options as possible both conventional and unconventional for you to discuss with your healthcare professional. It is important to emphasize that many of these options lack scientific support, and their use should be approached with caution. Consulting with a healthcare professional who specializes in tinnitus is crucial before trying any treatments.

Is EFT effective in the treatment of tinnitus?

Emotional Freedom Technique, often referred to as EFT or Tapping is primarily an alternative therapy that involves tapping on specific meridian points on the body while focusing on emotional or psychological issues There are over a hundred clinical trials that have shown that EFT is effective for anxiety, depression, PTSD, pain, phobias’ as well as many physical diagnoses. 

There are over a hundred papers published in peer-reviewed medical and psychology journals demonstrating that EFT is effective and can help with a wide range of conditions, including stress and anxiety. But as mentioned earlier tinnitus is a complex condition with various potential causes. Which could determine its effectiveness in treating tinnitus. However, it can significantly reduce the stress that is brought on by tinnitus.

At times it would appear that the brain or its perception can get caught in a loop and then the unconscious mind goes looking for the sounds. Using EFT to clear the loop is an important way forward. Which leads us to another option.

If you would like more information on EFT for tinnitus, here’s a link:

EFT Tapping for Tinnitus – EFT Universe

Acoustic CR Neuromodulation

The Forschungszentrum Jülich in Germany 1. The center has conducted research on tinnitus and neuro acoustic neuromodulation. In fact, a clinical trial led by Professor Peter Tass at Jülich Research Center in Germany reports that a non-invasive technique known as Acoustic CR® Neuromodulation benefited 75% of patients. The results were published in Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience 1. Acoustic Coordinated Reset (CR) Neuromodulation provided the trial’s patients with a “significant and clinically relevant decrease” in tinnitus loudness and annoyance within 12 weeks, compared to patients who received a placebo, according to the authors. Tass suggests that Acoustic CR® Neuromodulation reduces tinnitus loudness by reducing the overactivity of auditory nerve cells within the hearing portion of the brain. The treatment involves patients wearing headphones that emit a series of tones designed to match the frequency of their individual tinnitus tones. The treatment’s emitted tones are designed to interfere and eventually disrupt the patient’s rhythmic tinnitus firing patterns in the nerve cells that are believed to be causing the tinnitus 1.

Bimodal Neuromodulation

New Tinnitus Treatment Update! Dr. Cliff Olson, Audiologist and founder of Applied Hearing Solutions in Phoenix Arizona, discusses the New Lenire Tinnitus Treatment Device from Neuromod that uses Bimodal Neuromodulation as a new way to treat tinnitus. Could it be the first cure for tinnitus? Find a Lenire Provider: https://www.lenire.com/find-a-clinic/

To find out more about the New Lenire Treatment Device you can go to:  https://www.lenire.com

Tinnitus and Nutrition     Is There a Connection?

Let’s dive in and see what comes up!

For your consideration

Are you curious about the connection between tinnitus and nutrition? Tinnitus Detective has got you covered! Let’s look at some nutrients that can impact tinnitus symptoms. Both conventional and non-conventional. Keep reading to learn more.


  1. Antioxidants:
    • Vitamin B12: Found in animal products, a B12 deficiency has been associated with hearing loss and tinnitus. Including things like fish, meat, and dairy in your diet might be beneficial.
    • Magnesium: Is a mineral that plays a role in nerve function and has been studied for its potential to reduce the severity of tinnitus. Nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and whole grains are good sources of magnesium.
    • Zinc: There are some studies that suggest that zinc supplementation might have a positive effect on tinnitus, particularly in individuals with zinc deficiency. Foods like meat, nuts, and legumes contain zinc.
  2. Low-Sodium Diet:
    • Excessive sodium intake can lead to fluid retention, affecting the fluid balance in the inner ear. This, in turn, may impact hearing function and contribute to tinnitus. Reducing salt intake by avoiding processed foods and limiting added salt can be beneficial. It has been noted that the type of salt can also make a difference.
  3. Hydration:
    • Staying well-hydrated is essential for overall health, this includes auditory function. Dehydration can affect the viscosity of the fluids in the inner ear, potentially influencing tinnitus symptoms.
  4. Avoiding Stimulants:
    • Some individuals report changes in tinnitus symptoms related to stimulants like caffeine and nicotine. It might be worth monitoring your intake and consider reducing your intake if you notice a correlation.
  5. Individual Variability:
    • It’s crucial to realize that the relationship between nutrition and tinnitus can vary from person to person. Factors such as the underlying cause of tinnitus, overall health, and individual responses to dietary changes all play a role.

Keep in mind that while these dietary considerations may offer potential benefits, it’s important to approach them with caution. Consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice based on your specific health profile and help rule out any underlying medical conditions contributing to tinnitus.

Cinnamon?

Photo by Mareefe on Pexels.com

While there is no conclusive evidence that Cinnamon may have some effects on tinnitus Cinnamon can prevent or improve hearing loss, which can be a root cause of tinnitus. 

Cinnamon, Comfrey and Chamomile are all rich in anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant compound, which could be helpful in alleviating tinnitus. It is said that Cinnamon can act on both dopaminergic neurons and serotonin, which could play a role in tinnitus.

If you decide to try the Cinnamon and/or Honey. From my research, get organic Ceylon Cinnamon, it is considered ‘True Cinnamon.”

Honey

Photo by ROMAN ODINTSOV on Pexels.com

It is best to use Raw Local Honey, especially in today’s markets. As many brands of honey on the market now have high fructose corn syrup in them!

The Tinnitus Detective Blog

As I continue to grow this website, I will continue to add more pages and more pertinent information. But I will also be working on the blog pages as well. Continuing to dig and find more information to do my best to give you as many options as possible.

Keep in mind that I might have some links on here to other websites for more information on particular subjects. There might also be some ads on here as well, that would take you to other websites and while I might receive compensation from some of these, it does not mean that I endorse them or their products. I will do my best to give you quality information and research as much as I can. 

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