What is tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the perception of noise or ringing in the ears when no external sound is present. It is a common problem that affects 15-20% of the population. Tinnitus is not a disease but a symptom of an underlying condition, such as age-related hearing loss, ear injury, or a circulatory system disorder.
There are two main types of tinnitus, subjective and objective. Subjective tinnitus is the most experienced, where only the person affected can hear the noise. This condition affects the outer, middle, or inner ear and causes issues with the auditory nerves or brain pathways. Objective tinnitus is a rarer form, where the person affected and others around them hear the sounds. Problems with blood vessels, muscles, or bones inside the ear or surrounding structures are commonly the source.
What causes tinnitus?
The causes of tinnitus include hearing loss, exposure to loud noise, earwax blockage, ear or sinus infections, otosclerosis, Meniere's disease, and certain medications. Other causes are temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ), head or neck injuries, and blood vessel disorders.
Cognitive disorders, such as dementia or Alzheimer's, can lead to brain structure and function changes, which may exacerbate tinnitus symptoms. Additionally, factors associated with mental disorders, such as stress, anxiety, and depression, can contribute to the condition. People with tinnitus may also experience increased cognitive difficulties, as the persistent noise can be distracting and lead to problems with focus, memory, and concentration.
The relationship between cognitive disorders and tinnitus is complex, and many factors can influence the development and severity of both conditions.
What are the symptoms of tinnitus?
Tinnitus symptoms can vary in pitch, volume, and type of sound and may be temporary or chronic. Common tinnitus symptoms include high or low-pitched ringing, constant buzzing or hissing, and low and steady humming. People also experience loud roaring, rhythmic clicking, and pulsing noises.
Tinnitus can be accompanied by cognitive symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, anxiety, or sleep disturbances.
How is it treated?
Common treatments for tinnitus include cognitive-behavioral therapy, tinnitus retraining therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help individuals manage their reactions to tinnitus by changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. Tinnitus retraining therapy combines sound therapy with counseling to help people habituate to tinnitus and reduce its impact on daily life. Medications such as antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, or sleeping aids could help manage related symptoms like anxiety, depression, or insomnia.
Lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, practicing relaxation techniques, maintaining a healthy diet, and exercising can improve overall well-being and help alleviate tinnitus symptoms.
How can Brain Frequency™ help?
The Brain Frequency™ AI system is an innovative therapeutic approach to improving brain health and wellness. We use proprietary science-based technology to promote optimal brain functioning across mental, emotional, physical, and social domains. Our diagnostic technology and individualized treatment protocols help decrease or eliminate trauma-related symptoms and various mental health disorders.
The Brain Frequency™ 3 Step Treatment Process consists of; first, performing a Baseline EEG and completing Psychometric Assessments; second, conducting a Brain Frequency Consultation; and third, Initiating Treatment.
An Electroencephalogram (EEG) analyzes brain waves and produces a brain map identifying current and optimal frequencies in 19 areas of the brain. Based on the individualized brain map, Brain Frequency™ will determine possible diagnoses of various mental health disorders or brain trauma for the provider to consider during treatment. Brain Frequency™ AI software provides clinicians with an "Approval Ready" treatment plan using personalized protocols based on each patient's needs.
Those suffering from tinnitus can efficiently and effectively treat the underlying cognitive and mental health conditions causing it by using the Brain Frequency™ AI system. Our innovative system drastically reduces the time needed to properly diagnose and construct treatment plans leading to a faster recovery and greater quality of life.
Tammy C. Perez, M.A., NCC, LCDC, LPC
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