Q: What is the most effective device available on the market right now that helps ease the suffering of those with tinnitus?

A: There is no cure for tinnitus, at least currently. For those who are really bothered by tinnitus, the best we have to offer is extensive counseling that involves explanations of hearing loss, tinnitus and emotions and activities focused on ways to change reactions and reduce the intrusiveness of the tinnitus. Many patients also benefit from using devices that produce low-level sounds, such as a soft noise or music. Having background sound present often reduces the prominence of the tinnitus and helps them focus on other activities.

Q: How many people in the U.S. suffer from tinnitus? Is it likely that there are many that have the condition but don't realize?

A: Estimates suggest that about 5 percent of the population reports tinnitus that they perceive on a regular basis that lasts longer than five minutes. Many people hear a sound that lasts for a few seconds, together with a temporary feeling of fullness and hearing loss. We do not know if this is related to the more permanent, problematic tinnitus. The next time you hear this, pause and just think if it never went away.

About 15 percent to 20 percent of the population over 60 experiences problematic tinnitus. It actually is quite common. Many people are not too bothered by tinnitus, but they usually would prefer that it was not there at all.

Q: In your UI departments of Otolaryngology and Speech Pathology and Audiology, what research is going on?

A: Actually, we currently have two investigations to help tinnitus patients. One is counseling and sound therapy that includes three to six counseling session and the use of background sound or wearable devices. This intent is to help people put the tinnitus in the background, so they do not notice it as often and they have strategies in place so when they do hear it they can adjust to it. A second study is an attempt to eliminate tinnitus and involves the placement of an electrode to the brain placed on the head. Anyone interested in either of these studies can contact me at 356-2471 or rich-tyler@uiowa.edu.

Q: What does tinnitus sounds like?

A: It is different for different people. The more common reports are ringing, humming, buzzing, hissing and cricket-like noise. Some people report several sounds. In about half, it is heard all the time, and in others, the tinnitus comes and goes. In about half, it is heard in both ears, and in others it is heard in one ear or in the head. Some report that when it is present, it changes in loudness and pitch.

Q: How is a person's daily life affected if they suffer from problematic tinnitus?

A: I think that tinnitus can affect someone in four broad areas. First, it can have an impact on their thoughts and emotions. People with tinnitus can be anxious or depressed, upset and on edge. Second, tinnitus sometimes interferes with hearing. Although tinnitus usually occurs with hearing loss, the tinnitus can have its own impact on hearing. For example, some people report it is difficult to hear birds, music or even speech through the ringing. Third, many people with tinnitus have difficulty falling asleep at night. They are in a quiet bedroom at the end of the day, and the tinnitus seems to become more prominent. Fourth, some people report that tinnitus interferes with attention, when they are trying to read a book or the newspaper. It is easy to imagine that these four areas can have an impact on interpersonal relationships, work and recreation.

By Jacob Maxson
http://www.press-citizen.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060604/NEWS01/606040307/1079