Tinnitus, also known as ringing ears, is often described as sounds other than ringing including a buzzing, chirping, pulsating sound. These sounds have no external source and instead are only heard by the individual experiencing tinnitus causing them much discomfort. While there is no cure for Tinnitus, there are ways to manage the symptoms allowing the suffered to find some relief from the persistent noise. Your first step to managing your tinnitus is to contact us.  We will send you detailed questionnaires about your health and what you are experiencing.  We will then schedule two appointments with our Audiologist, Dr. Meg Kalady.  

Your first appointment will be diagnostic in nature, and consist of a Comprehensive Audiogram, Speech in Noise Testing, Loudness Discomfort Levels, Tympanometry and Acoustic Reflex Testing, Otoacoustic Emissions testing, and a Tinnitus Evaluation.  The second appointment encompasses going over the results of the last appointment, Tinnitus Education and Counseling, and recommendations.  Treatment options are based on the individual’s need.

Treatment Options

Hearing Aids: A large number of those with tinnitus also experience some degree of hearing loss. Treating the hearing loss often reduces the perception of tinnitus for the hearing aid wearer, as they are able to focus on the sounds coming in from the hearing device. Furthermore, many hearing aids now offer advanced tinnitus programs, resulting in a less frustrating experience for those with ringing ears.

Sound Therapy: These devices are used to reduce the contrast between silence and Tinnitus.  Depending on the individual’s need, soothing, background, and/or interesting sounds can be used to lessen the impact of tinnitus.

Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT): TRT is a practice that introduces habituating the body reactions influenced by tinnitus and habituating the perception of tinnitus signal itself.  The goal is to train the brain to block the tinnitus signal, like the brain blocks sounds like fans or refrigerators. It is a one-on-one training counseling and sound therapy that follows a specific habituation protocol.  TRT is a highly effective (>80% success) method for treating tinnitus and hyperacusis.  Dr Kalady is now certified in Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) after intensive training with the authorities and founders of TRT, Drs Pawel and Margaret Jastreboff.