People with tinnitus hear sounds that are not really there and that other people can’t hear, including ringing in the ears, and buzzing, humming, roaring or whistling background noises.

Tinnitus is often caused by hearing loss resulting from exposure to loud noises, so those who work in manufacturing, mining and construction industries where the machinery and equipment in factories, mines, and work sites is often very loud, can often develop the condition.

As well as causing considerable distress and having an adverse affect on work, family and social life, many tinnitus sufferers find exposure to loud noises very painful, causing problems for those who have to work where loud noise levels are the norm.

While studies show that 9 out of 10 tinnitus sufferers are offered no treatment, a new treatment brings reduced awareness of tinnitus and offers hope for restored sleep, enhanced relaxation, and improved tolerance of loud noises.

The Neuromonics Tinnitus Treatment involves listening to a specially designed acoustic program over several months for 2-3 hours a day through the headphones of a Processor the size and shape of a mobile phone, and includes an interactive and progressive program of care with specialist clinicians.

The discreet compact size and portability of the processor means it can be easily integrated into the user’s everyday routine.

The treatment works by desensitising users to their tinnitus through customised stimulation of the auditory pathways affected by hearing loss or tinnitus.

Dr Peter Hanley, Chief Executive Office of Neuromonics, says: “As well as offering great relief from the distress caused by tinnitus, this treatment allows users to get on with their daily lives, even while listening to the Processor.”

“While we can’t predict the results for everyone, our clinical trials have shown that over 90% of those who had completed treatment reported relief from their tinnitus and an improved ability to fall asleep, and 60% had at least a 5 decibel improvement in their tolerance of loud noises,” said Dr Hanley.

The treatment is based on over a decade of research into the effect of various sounds or ‘acoustic stimuli’ on tinnitus.

The first step for tinnitus sufferers considering this new treatment is to have an assessment of their hearing and tinnitus at a specialist Neuromonics Tinnitus Clinic to find out if it is suitable for them.

The company currently has clinics offering treatment in Sydney and Perth, with plans to expand around Australia early in 2005, and eventually make it available in the USA and Europe.

By Neuromonics