Are you Suffering from any of these symptoms as a result of Tinnitus? Call Today for a Consultation.

    Mild to severe anxiety
    Insomnia
    Triggered fight or flight

  Depression
  Negative thinking
  Crying spells

  Hopelessness
  Suicidal thoughts
  Ringing in the ears

Do you feel your family and friends don’t understand?
Are you growing more isolated?
Do you feel like life will never be the same?
Are you refraining from activities that you enjoy?
Are you fearful of losing your job?
Do you find that your thoughts tend to be negative?

If you answered yes to 3 or more of these questions or symptoms, then we can help.

You may be a candidate for Tinnitus Cognitive Retraining Therapy, or TCRT.  Stephen Geller Katz, LCSW-R, with over 20 years of clinical experience, a New York University graduate, developed Tinnitus Cognitive Retraining Therapy and founded Tinnitus Cognitive Center™ in response to the growing number of Tinnitus sufferers coming to his private practice. He discovered that by helping people to retrain and reinterpret the thoughts around their Tinnitus, anxiety and depression symptoms began to improve. But even more important so did the Tinnitus.

Call us at (646) 213-2321 for a consultation.

See our main site: www.tinnituscognitivecenter.com
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Category Archives: Tinnitus Treatment NYC

Meditation for Tinnitus NYC

Does Meditation for Tinnitus Work?

Meditation and yoga have been proven to lessen the symptoms of tinnitus. Tinnitus is an affliction that causes ringing, clinking, whistling, pulsing, and humming in one’s ears. It Can be a great distraction to those that are not used to the noise. The best way to deal with these noises is to practice radical acceptance. Yoga and meditation can help you to reach this point of peace. Make peace with this affliction and you will be able to deal with anything life throws at you.

It has been observed that during meditation sessions, some patients reported that the ringing in their ears would subside. Or they have found that they can handle it much better after embracing its existence and meditating instead of working hard to distract themselves from it. By sitting down with correct posture and taking deep calming breaths you can begin to conquer tinnitus. Take deep breaths and let the silence of the room soothe your mind. The more you do this the less you will notice the ringing in your ears.

Even if the ringing persists, embrace it fully. Know that you are okay. Enjoy the moment and just be in the now. It may be annoying at first but from personal experience, I know that you can overcome this affliction with patience and peace of mind.

The key is to keep up this routine. Do not let negative thoughts make you reject meditation altogether. Meditation will help you to take control of everything in your life and help you to accept every part of yourself.

Go to a quiet room of your house and empty your mind of everything. The last thing you need is to stress about work or your boss because it has been proven that stress increases the ringing in your ears. It makes things worse and will do nothing but work against you. Just clear your mind and focus on your breathing and posture.

Slowly visualize things that improve your mood. This could be flowers or meadows. Some patients even enjoy visualizing rain splashing down upon the water. There are videos and CDs dedicated to emulating rainfall These are wonderful tools to use to calm your mind and get you into a mindset of peace and quiet. There are many CDs out there that contain the sounds of ocean waves splashing upon the shore.

Turn these CDs on and imagine yourself sitting on the beach and let out calm breaths. As you exhale imagine all your troubles leaving your body. Imagine your tinnitus symptoms disappearing into the waves. Calming your mind is essential.

Add meditation to your schedule. One is never too busy to meditate. Meditation is beneficial especially when you feel like your tinnitus is overwhelming to you. You can conquer this like anything else.

If you need any help with managing your symptoms you can contact us. We can help you on your way to improving your life and mindset. Conquering tinnitus comes from within and it all starts with your mindset. Instead of being a victim you can be a victor. Contact us today for guidance.

Signs and Symptoms of Tinnitus by NYC Tinnitus Expert

Symptoms of Tinnitus

There are many symptoms of tinnitus. From ringing to clinking to roaring, buzzing, and hissing. Tinnitus can take many different forms or take all at once. It can be very distressing if you do not know that tinnitus is. The main symptoms used to diagnose tinnitus include:

  • Ringing
  • Buzzing
  • Clicking
  • Hissing
  • Whistling
  • Pulsatile tinnitus

The noises may be continuous or could occur every now and then. All of these could have underlining causes, so it is best to contact a doctor if you are experiencing these symptoms. Symptoms such as fainting could be caused by a disease that needs to be diagnosed as soon as possible.

Some people find that in time their symptoms go away and with others, it stays. If your tinnitus has yet to go away and you have been living with it for years I suggest you check out our article titled ‘’Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Tinnitus’’ In that article, we talk about how much CBT can improve your life and help you to have a more positive outlook when dealing with
tinnitus.

Clicking

Clicking is a very common symptom of tinnitus. The clicking comes from swallowing. When we swallow, yawn, or blow our noses, the Eustachian tube opens and allows air to pass from the middle of your ear to the back of your nose. This symptom is very similar to pulsatile tinnitus because it is a result of damage to the nerves in your ear. Because of that you can hear things in your body that most people can’t. In pulsatile tinnitus you can hear your heartbeat but the clicking in the ear is you hearing you eustachian tubes opening with each swallow. It can be alarming and annoying but can be treated by a doctor.

Hyperacusis

tinnitus-sounds-symptoms-signs-info-03Hyperacusis is a fancy word for saying that the patient is very sensitive to sounds. Even if the sound is at a normal or low volume it may be distressing to someone that is struggling with tinnitus. It is because the brain is working overtime to compensate for the damaged nerves in your ear. So, do not fret if the tv is at a normal volume and yet it feels as if your eardrums could split at any moment. This is a normal reaction to tinnitus. It is distressing but can be helped by visiting a doctor. Hyperacusis is often the result of prolonged exposure to loud noises. This issue is most commonly viewed amongst musicians and people who work with machines or contruction.

Pulsatile tinnitus

symptoms-of-tinnitus-01

Pulsatile tinnitus is different from regular tinnitus in that you may hear rhythmical noises that beat in time with your pulse. This problem is often caused by blood flow changes in the vessels near the ear, or to a specific condition such as a perforated eardrum or atherosclerosis.

Pulsatile tinnitus tends to come and go and rarely stays the whole time. The pulsing is your heartbeat. Every time your heart thumps your ears thump with it. It can be very alarming but just know that often it will fade away. I have observed that this tends to happen after the patient has been exposed to loud noises for a long period of time and the ears are overwhelmed. It is a sign that the vessels near the ear have been damaged or irritated recently.

These symptoms are signs that you must go see a doctor as soon as possible. For help with these symptoms contact us today to schedule an appointment to treat your tinnitus. We can help you on your way to improving your life and mindset.

Can Listening to Music on Your Headphones Cause Tinnitus?

Headphones and Tinnitus

Headphones are a pair of pieces of a sound system that worn inside the confined eardrum. But sometimes excessive use of headphones can lead to cause a hearing-loss issue. Frequently listening to loud music can even give you annoying tinnitus and cause permanent damage to your ear nerves. Use of headphones while sleeping is also affected you hearing ability due to high exposure to different frequencies.

About one-third of the population of America is suffering from tinnitus as they are habitual of listening to the music through headphones. Many cases of tinnitus have been reported due to the overexposure to loud noise. The confined sound emission system of headphones can also cause irreversible damage which is often called as sensorineural.

Effect Of Headphones

Many ear infection and hearing loss problem has arisen worldwide during the past few years due to the uncontrollable use of headphones. The high-intensity features of headphones can also trigger acoustic trauma which can cause ringing in the ear and other health effects such as cardiovascular illness, sleeplessness, and reduced cognitive function.

Listening to loud music on continuous and intermitted basis can lead to ultimate tinnitus because hearing disability is the topmost cause of tinnitus. Headphones are not itself is the cause of tinnitus but comes in the list of causes. Moreover, ear buds also play the same role as headphone does.

If you have existing tinnitus symptoms, don’t ruin your eardrum more by listening to music because your central auditory filtrating system is not working in this condition. Persist high volume noise can permanently harm tympanic membrane of your ear.

But listening without the headphones will not cause serious harm to your hearing nerve, in fact, it helps you to conceal the annoying tinnitus ringing. That’s why many tinnitus treatment therapies have music aid in the list because it gives you pleasing and relaxing effect. Earmuffs, nature sound and other ambient sound is also effective in reducing the symptoms of tinnitus.

Some of the excellent headphones are available in stores which have controlled volume system, low bass and other excellent features which will not render your enjoyable activities such as rock concert and parties.

Involving healthy practices in life before it’s late to control tinnitus. Hearing aids and safe standard of listening music will also help to combat the effects.

Bottom Line

If you are not a regular user of headphones or rarely listen to songs on it, you are still not safe from tinnitus. I must say that you are still vulnerable to it because many auditory systems and speakers are ringing in your surroundings that can also put you in the line of susceptibility. But you can keep yourself safe from these dangerous effects of noise by wearing personal protective equipment. If you are a musician or singer, try not to expose yourself to noise, as it can permanently hider your professional abilities.

Call today for a free 15 min phone consultation 646-213-2321

Could Earwax Be Causing Your Tinnitus?

Could Earwax Be Causing Your Tinnitus?Wax is an important natural secretion which is mainly found in the ear. Its main purpose is to protect the ear against dirt, dust and bacteria, helping to prevent infections. Wax is made up of skin cells, dust and oily secretions which come from the glands found in the ear canal. These secretions work to lubricate the ear canal, preventing it from becoming too dry. Wax composition can vary between individuals depending on factors such as age, diet, health, environment and more.

Dealing with Earwax Build-Up

A build-up of wax in the ear is a common occurrence, which could cause worry for some people. However, if you feel that you have too much wax in one or both ears but it is not causing you any obvious problems, then it is best left alone. Since the ear is a self-cleaning part of the body, any excess earwax should be cleaned away naturally without the need for you to intervene. If you notice wax on the outer ear, then wiping it with a clean flannel or sponge may be all that is necessary.

When Problems are Caused

In most cases, a build-up of earwax is nothing to worry about and will be quickly sorted out on its own. However, in some cases, excess wax in the ear can lead to problems, such as a loss of hearing, tinnitus, or even infections. Bear in mind that putting things into the ear to clean it, such as Q-tips, can actually increase the risk of infections so is best avoided. They can also strip the ear of its natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and itchy.

Tinnitus Caused by Earwax

If you are experiencing a lot of wax in one or both of your ears and this is also accompanied by a ringing or humming sound in your head or ears, then you may be suffering from tinnitus caused by a build-up of earwax. If this is the case, then the best thing to do is see your doctor as soon as possible so that they can determine if it has been caused by an underlying issue and recommend the best course of treatment for you to take. In most cases, earwax build-up can be easily drained away by a trained professional to provide relief.

Are you suffering from tinnitus brought on by too much earwax? Get in touch today to schedule your appointment for the best tinnitus treatment in NYC.

Call today for a free 15min phone consultation 646-213-2321

7 Uncommonly Known Facts About Tinnitus

7 Uncommonly Known Facts About TinnitusTinnitus is a condition of the ear which usually manifests itself as sounds which are not coming from the external environment. People who suffer from this condition may experience hearing a buzzing, humming, ringing, or hissing sound in their ears. We’ve got the facts about this condition.

#1. Noises in the Head:

In general, tinnitus is characterized by hearing noises in the head, however, these are not usually the result of any psychiatric condition. Symptoms can vary between patients and the noises can be heard anywhere in the head, in one ear, or in both.

#2. Many Causes:

Whilst many people believe that tinnitus is caused by prolonged exposure to loud noises, the truth of the matter is that this condition can be brought on by several different reasons. Some people will develop tinnitus for no obvious reason, whilst for others, it is brought on by an infection or through hearing loss.

#3. More Common than You Think:

As a condition, tinnitus may be more common than you realize. In general, around 10-15% of adults will experience tinnitus during their lifetime, with around 50 million citizens in the U.S. suffering from this condition to some degree. Around 12 million patients have tinnitus which is so serious that they must seek medical help.

#4. Can be Caused by Stress:

7 Uncommonly Known Facts About TinnitusIf you lead a stressful life or suffer from anxiety, then you may be at a higher risk of developing tinnitus. Stress and anxiety can be common contributors to this condition; many patients who suffer from chronic stress, panic attacks, or depression are more prone to hearing ringing and other sounds in the ears.

#5. Not All Cases are Equal:

Many cases of tinnitus are caused by the brain interpreting sounds coming from the ears. Because of this, the sounds heard as a result of this condition can vary greatly between patients. While a ringing in the ears is the most common symptom, it’s not uncommon for patients to hear other sounds such as buzzing, clicking, humming, or a mixture of sounds.

#6. Smokers are at Higher Risk:

Studies have shown that smoking isn’t just bad for your heart and lungs – the toxic chemicals found in cigarette smoke can also be harmful to your ears, with known links with ear infections and tinnitus.

#7. It Causes Embarrassment:

7 Uncommonly Known Facts About TinnitusMany people suffering with tinnitus are too embarrassed to mention the condition to their friends or family, and can often be put off from seeking help.

Don’t be shy – if you’re suffering with tinnitus, get in touch with our NYC tinnitus clinic today to see what we can do for you!

Call today for a free 15min phone consultation 646-213-2321

The Best Holistic Treatments for Curing Tinnitus

The Best Holistic Treatments for Curing TinnitusDo you suffer from a ringing in the ears that’s happening all too often? If so, then there’s a chance that you’re suffering from tinnitus – but don’t worry, since there are several natural treatment options out there which can help. Most experts view tinnitus as a condition which causes ringing in the ears, however, this can also be manifested as other abnormal sounds and sensations. For many, tinnitus symptoms will eventually go away as the ears adjust, however, if you have been dealing with tinnitus for some time, you might want to try one of these natural treatment options.

#1. Counseling and Coping Strategies:

Experts recommend that patients suffering with tinnitus become as educated as possible about the condition and learn how to best deal with the symptoms. This could include getting educated on biofeedback in order to control your stress reaction to tinnitus sounds, for example. If tinnitus is really beginning to get you down or make you anxious, then talking with a counselor can help you manage the emotional side effects.

#2. Avoiding Prescription Drugs or Alcohol:

The Best Holistic Treatments for Curing TinnitusResearch has shown that some prescription and over-the-counter drugs, even simple painkillers, have been known to make the symptoms of tinnitus worse. Smoking, and drinking too much alcohol, are also linked to tinnitus and can worsen the symptoms. If you believe that your medication could be the root cause of your tinnitus, then speak to your doctor about lowering your dose or switching to a different brand.

#3. De-Stress:

If you are super stressed all the time, then this can lead to inflammation in your body, a main cause of tinnitus and other ear problems such as infections and vertigo. Along with that, being stressed out can make dealing with the symptoms of tinnitus worse due to the fact that it changes how your brain reacts to the sounds heard. Chronic stress can reduce your immunity and make you more susceptible to infections, nerve damage, allergies and other ear problems. Natural stress relievers such as exercise, yoga, meditation, and calming essential oils can help tackle a tinnitus problem brought on by stress.

#4. Remove Earwax:

If you have excessive earwax, this could be a main contributing factor to your tinnitus symptoms. However, be careful when dealing with this – putting q-tips or anything else into your ear to clean it can actually contribute to blockages and damage. If you are worried that you have too much earwax which could be causing a health problem, then speak to your doctor about having it drained.

Call today for a free 15min phone consultation 646-213-2321

Can Acupuncture Aid with Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a perception of sound in the ear which does not originate from the external environment, from within the body, or from hallucinations. As many as 18% of the general population living in industrialized countries suffer from this condition, with 0.5% of patients reporting that tinnitus has a major effect on their ability to lead a normal and healthy life.

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is commonly characterized as a ringing in the ear, and does not have any exact cause. The condition is usually caused by inner ear damage. However, it can also be the result of an infection in the ear, a perforated eardrum, or simply a large build-up of earwax. The condition is often presented with hearing loss, and can persist for many years in some cases. It can lead to other conditions, such as insomnia, lack of focus, and even depression in some patients.

Can Acupuncture Help?

In 2000, a systematic review concluded that so far, research had not demonstrated that acupuncture was an effective treatment for tinnitus. However, some of the studies included in the review used questionable controls, inadequate acupuncture treatments, and many were designed in a cross-over manner that is generally seen as inadequate for evaluating the effectiveness of acupuncture. So, more recent controlled trials carried out since this review have all found that acupuncture can be a source of successful relief from tinnitus, with one study even finding this ancient holistic health technique more effective than traditional Western medicine.

How Acupuncture Can Relieve Tinnitus:

Acupuncture is effective for relieving the symptoms of tinnitus in several different ways. Firstly, it can help to provide relief by acting on the cochlea, and particularly on the contractile activity of the outer hair cells. In addition, acupuncture treatments can also work on the efferent olivocochlear system in the ear; in turn, this will help to suppress any optoacoustic emissions. Acupuncture is also well-known for its ability to reduce inflammation; this is often a common cause of tinnitus and reducing inflammation in and around the ear can help to quickly relieve symptoms. It can also increase local microcirculation, which can help to reduce swelling and inflammation further. Finally, acupuncture can help to relieve the symptoms of tinnitus by altering the brain’s chemistry to increase and reduce the levels of certain neurotransmitters.

Contact the best tinnitus treatment in NYC today to see what we can do for you!

Call today for a free 15min phone consultation 646-213-2321

The Tinnitus Diet: The Foods That Trigger Tinnitus

If you are suffering from tinnitus, then you might have noticed that some days, it simply gets worse for no apparent reason. If this happens, do you ever stop to think about what you have eaten? Managing your tinnitus can often all come down to eating better and understanding if there are any particular foods which are more likely to trigger it than others. Many foods can have an effect on the symptoms of tinnitus, both positively and negatively. Here’s what not to eat if you suffer from tinnitus.

#1. Fast Foods:

Fast food can be a convenient treat, however, for those with tinnitus it can simply make the symptoms a lot worse. Along with pre-packaged and processed foods, fast food contains a large amount of salt, flavor enhancers, preservatives and saturated fats which are designed to prolong shelf life or enhance the appearance and taste of the products. However, the chemicals used are not food, and can have many undesirable side effects. In general, they tend to negatively affect tinnitus and make the ringing or humming sounds louder.

#2. Salt:

Salt tends to have an immediate effect on tinnitus, which always makes it worse. Consuming too much salt will restrict the blood vessels, increase your blood pressure and reduce the flow of blood to your ears, eyes and brain. As a result, an increase in blood pressure is directly linked to the symptoms of tinnitus being increased. Bear in mind that there are high levels of salt in pre-packaged and processed foods; the best way to avoid this ingredient from worsening your tinnitus is to cook as many meals as you can from scratch so that you can control the salt level.

#3. Sugar:

Everybody knows that eating sugary foods can be bad for your teeth, weight, and overall health. But, did you know that consuming too much sugar can also be one of the main reasons that your tinnitus is getting worse instead of going away? Studies have shown that around 85-90% of people with tinnitus also suffer from a sugar metabolism disorder which is characterized by increased levels of insulin in the bloodstream, causing the body to become less sensitive to insulin and increasing the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Too much sugar can cause an imbalance of chemicals in the brain, which in turn can worsen the symptoms of tinnitus.

The Tinnitus Diet The Foods That Trigger TinnitusAre you struggling to manage your tinnitus? Get in touch with out NYC tinnitus clinic today for helpful advice!

Call today for a free 15min phone consultation 646-213-2321

The 5 Most Common Causes of Tinnitus

Although the cause of tinnitus is not exactly known, it is thought to be an issue with how the ear hears sounds, along with how the brain interprets them. Tinnitus is generally characterized by a ringing sound within the ear. In many cases, tinnitus is caused by hearing loss or damage to the inner ear, however, around one in three people with this condition do not have an obvious problem with their hearing or ears. Here are the five most common causes of tinnitus.

#1. Inner Ear Damage

More often than not, tinnitus is caused by damage to the inner ear. When we hear sounds, they pass through from the outer to the inner ear, which contains the cochlea and auditory nerve. If part of the cochlea becomes damaged, it may stop sending information to your brain as effectively, which then leads to the brain ‘seeking out’ parts of the cochlea that are still working. As a result, these signals may then become over-represented in the brain, leading to the sounds of tinnitus.

#2. Earwax Build-Up

If you are suffering from tinnitus and do not have any obvious hearing loss problem, nor have suffered any damage to your ear, then this condition could be caused by something as simple as ear-wax build up. A build-up of ear-wax will block the ear, potentially leading to the sounds of tinnitus occurring. Having your ears drained by a medical professional should solve the problem.

#3. Ear Infections

Ear infections can cause temporary damage to the cochlea, leading to tinnitus-like symptoms. If you have been suffering from a cold or the flu, or are prone to ear infections, then this could be the main reason for hearing tinnitus sounds. Thankfully, your doctor should be able to help by prescribing a course of antibiotics.

#4. Meniere’s Disease

This is a condition of the inner ear that brings on sudden attacks of vertigo, pressure inside the ear, hearing loss, and tinnitus. Symptoms can vary from person to person, however, they typically tend to happen all at once and can last minutes or hours. If you think that you may have Meniere’s Disease, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

#5. Perforated Eardrum

A ruptured or perforated eardrum can lead to tinnitus-like symptoms such as a ringing sound in the ear. Although this condition will usually heal by itself within a few weeks, it’s a good idea to see your doctor to prevent infections or further damage.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment for the best tinnitus treatment in NYC.

Call today for a free 15min phone consultation 646-213-2321

Tinnitus: Is There a Cure?

Tinnitus is a condition that is mainly characterized by hearing ringing, buzzing, humming or hissing sounds in the ear that are not coming from the external environment. Although there is not usually a quick fix for tinnitus, unless it is caused by an easily treatable condition such as a middle ear infection or build-up of earwax, it will usually improve gradually over time. There are a number of treatments for tinnitus available which can help you cope with this condition and better manage the symptoms.

Treating Underlying Conditions:

Firstly, if you are suffering with tinnitus, the best thing to do is speak to your doctor and have them examine your ears to determine whether the condition has been caused by an easily treatable condition. In many cases, tinnitus is a symptom of minor ear issues, such as a perforated ear drum, an infection in the middle ear, or simply a build-up of too much ear wax. If your tinnitus is caused by any one of these conditions, they will usually be easy for your doctor to treat quickly with the appropriate methods, such as a course of antibiotics or earwax draining.

Correcting Hearing Loss:

If you have tinnitus which is mainly caused by age-related hearing loss or otherwise, then dealing with the hearing loss should be the first step to solving the problem. Correcting even minor hearing loss issues can often mean that the parts of your brain which are involved in hearing will no longer need to work as hard when it comes to interpreting sounds; therefore, your brain will not pay as much attention to the tinnitus. The best course of action is to see a hearing specialist who will be able to recommend a suitable course of treatment, such as having a hearing aid fitted or in some cases, surgery.

Counseling and Therapy:

As a continuous condition, tinnitus can often be very disruptive to the life of the patient. Many patients with tinnitus report a lack of focus and concentration due to the sounds that they hear, along with trouble sleeping and in some cases, mental health issues such as depression. Tinnitus counseling can be very useful by helping you to work together with your therapist to understand the condition and find healthy ways of managing and coping with it each day.

Get in touch today to book your appointment for the best tinnitus treatment in New York!

Call today for a free 15min phone consultation 646-213-2321

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the term used to describe hearing sounds from inside your body, rather than from an external source. In most cases, tinnitus is characterized as a ringing sound inside the ears, although patients with this condition often report hearing several different sounds, including buzzing, grinding, hissing, whistling, and humming sounds. Some patients can hear sounds which are similar to music, whilst others report hearing noises that tend to beat in time with their pulse, which is known as pulsatile tinnitus. Patients with tinnitus may also notice some hearing loss and extra sensitivity to everyday sounds.

Is Tinnitus Serious?

If you are suffering with tinnitus, then the first thing that you’ll want to know is whether it is a serious condition. Thankfully, tinnitus is rarely a sign of a very serious underlying condition, and the symptoms will tend to go away after a short time for many. However, tinnitus

can sometimes present itself as a continuous condition, which is when it can begin to have a significant impact on the patient’s everyday life. Severe cases of tinnitus can cause a lot of distress, have a huge impact on ability to focus and concentrate, and can lead to difficulty sleeping or depression.

When to See a Doctor:

If you are hearing continuous sounds in one or both ears that shouldn’t be there, then the best advice is to see your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will then be able to examine your ears to determine whether the problem is caused by an easily treatable condition such as an ear infection or perforated eardrum. They will also be able to carry out simple checks to detect any loss of hearing.

What Causes Tinnitus?

There is no known exact cause for tinnitus, however, the condition can develop either gradually over time, or come on suddenly. It often happens with some degree of hearing loss, although some patients with this condition do not report any damage to their hearing. Tinnitus is most often associated with age-related hearing loss, infections in the ear, inner ear damage caused by prolonged exposure to loud noises, build-up of earwax in the ear, or Meniere’s Disease, a condition which causes other symptoms such as vertigo and hearing loss. In some cases, there is no obvious reason for tinnitus to develop.

Do you think that you might be suffering with tinnitus? Contact us today to start your treatment with our NYC tinnitus experts.

Call today for a free 15min phone consultation 646-213-2321

What Does Tinnitus Sound Like?

What Does Tinnitus Sound Like?Tinnitus is a problem with the ears that is normally characterized as ringing or humming sounds coming from inside the head. Bear in mind that the sounds heard with tinnitus are exclusively heard by the patient, and nobody else. Although there is no known cause for tinnitus, it can be brought on by a number of different reasons, including damage to the inner ear, a middle ear infection, hearing loss, Meniere’s Disease, and more. So, what exactly does tinnitus sound like and how do you know if you are suffering from it?

Ringing in the Ears:

In general, tinnitus will sound like a ringing in the ears. In most cases, this does not persist, for example, in the case of tinnitus which has been brought on by prolonged exposure to loud noises, or if you attend a music festival or gig and experience a ringing sound in your ears when you leave. Most commonly, patients with tinnitus will describe a ringing sound, although the pitch of this can vary and some patients experience a ringing sound that is in line with their pulse; a condition known as pulsatile tinnitus.

What Does Tinnitus Sound Like?Other Sounds:

It’s not just a ringing sound that mainly characterizes tinnitus; many patients also describe hearing a number of other sounds, including a buzzing sound, hissing, whistling, roaring, or even sounds that are described as the release of air, or the sound of running water. Bear in mind that tinnitus is not the same for every patient, including the sounds heard – these can vary greatly depending on a number of factors including the cause of the condition, length, seriousness and more.

Dealing with the Sounds:

No matter which kind of sound you hear in your head or ears, dealing with tinnitus is never a nice experience. If you are currently experiencing a ringing, humming, hissing or other kind of sound coming from your head and not the external environment, then the best thing to do is see your doctor immediately so that they can best determine how to help you deal with the condition. In many cases, tinnitus can be caused by an easily treatable underlying condition such as an infection. If you are struggling to cope with the sounds on a day to day basis, then counseling and therapy can help you find healthy coping mechanisms and ways to manage.

Get in touch today to schedule your appointment with the best tinnitus clinic in NYC!

Call today for a free 15min phone consultation 646-213-2321

Tinnitus Sound Therapy Treatments

Tinnitus Sound Therapy TreatmentsTinnitus is a condition that results in a roaring or a ringing sound in the ear. The sound is generated inside the brain, and some doctors think this occurs when a person experiences hearing loss or other damage to the auditory nerve that carries signals from the outside world into the brain. In the absence of these external signals, the brain creates its own noise, which is experienced as sound by the person who is affected. The effects of tinnitus vary from person to person. It appears that people who focus on the sound produced as a result of tinnitus are significantly more debilitated by their condition. One technique that has shown exceptional promise to alleviate suffering from tinnitus is sound therapy. Stephen Katz is a top NYC tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, and he

Masking Techniques

Hearing aids are one technique to reduce tinnitus, and they are thought to work by increasing the external signal. When a person with tinnitus is able to “attend,” or pay attention to another signal, the internal noise generated by the brain diminishes. Use of a hearing aid is one type of sound therapy treatment, and the introduction of additional external sound stimulation masks the internal “tinnitus.”

White noise machine provide another useful therapy for masking tinnitus. By training the person with tinnitus to “attend” to the white noise, their focus on the annoying tinnitus is diminished. Stephen Katz, a top Manhattan tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, explains that although these masking techniques are still considered experimental, many patients have reported significant benefits.

What is a Masking Device?

A masking device may be about the same size as a hearing aid. The white noise produced by a masking device is more pleasant than the tinnitus to the person who is experiencing the problem. Some masking devices may include a combination of a hearing aid and white noise. The addition of a hearing aid will enable the person who is being treated to attend to external stimuli from both the environment AND from the white noise. Attention is an important component to consider when treating tinnitus. Stephen Katz, a leading Manhattan tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, uses a variety of training techniques to help patients manage the effects of tinnitus. These effects can be annoying, and they can result in disruptions of all areas of the patient’s life. A white noise machine will produce artificial sound or introduce natural sound into the patient’s ear, and although some patients find it effective, a small number of patients are as disturbed by their masking device as they are by the initial tinnitus that prompted treatment.

What Works Best?

What is a Masking Device?If you have tinnitus, you may have been told that there is no cure for your condition. However, you can certainly adapt to tinnitus, which will greatly improve your ability to live with this problem.  Stephen Katz, a tinnitus treatment psychotherapist in NYC, recommends exploration of all clinical modalities for treatment, and he has successfully treated many patients who have experienced a significant reduction in the distress they have as a result of their tinnitus.

If you are suffering from tinnitus, call 646-213-2321 today for your appoint with Stephen Katz, a leading Manhattan tinnitus treatment psychotherapist.

New Treatments for Tinnitus

 

New Treatments for Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a clinical syndrome that results in symptoms of ringing, roaring, or other sounds in the ear. These sounds are frequently not evident to others (subjective tinnitus,) but may sometimes be heard by a healthcare practitioner, particularly when the sound is the result of damage or abnormality in the blood vessels that supply the ear and the hearing apparatus. Dr. Stephen Geller Katz  leading NYC tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, can advise you about the newest treatments for tinnitus.

Can Tinnitus Be Cured?

Tinnitus can’t be “cured,” but the effects can be minimized through use of several therapies.  Dr.Stephen Geller Katz one of Manhattan’s leading tinnitus treatment psychotherapists, says learning to focus attention somewhere instead of on the sound that characterizes tinnitus is a useful strategy. Some therapies include the application of “white noise,” which tends to distract patients with tinnitus from their focus on the noise they are hearing in their head.

Research Continues for Effective Tinnitus Treatments

A Neuromonics device has been recently introduced for treatment of tinnitus. This device allows an audiologist to match the sound frequency of the patient’s tinnitus to sound generated by the device. Neuromonics tinnitus treatment uses both auditory stimulation of damaged parts of the hearing pathway and techniques for desensitization to tinnitus.

One recent treatment that has been shown to prevent hearing loss that is induced by noise is treatment with a compound that is a precursor of vitamin B3. This therapy has useful implications for prevention of age-related hearing loss, which is a primary cause of tinnitus. The chemical is called nicotinamide riboside, and protects the nerves that transmit sound from the cochlea to the brain.

New Treatments for TinnitusResearchers at Johns Hopkins discovered last year that “hair cells,” which are important to transmission of sounds to the brain, may become disorganized and result in impairment in hearing. This has important implications for treatment of tinnitus, which often results when hearing is impaired.

Low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation is currently being studied at different frequencies. Some of these treatments have resulted in statistically significant reductions of tinnitus loudness, but a 2013 review of the treatment by Theodoroff and Folmer found further studies are needed to determine the most effective procedure.

An area of study for treatment of patients with tinnitus is deep brain stimulation. Although studies of neuromodulation by this technique are promising, much more research is needed to prove consistent benefits from this treatment.

Auditory perceptual training may help patients with tinnitus, by changing neural circuitry. Most studies completed thus far have shown that patients report significant improvement in tinnitus after auditory perceptual training.

Current Recommendations: Tinnitus Retraining Therapy and Masking Techniques

Tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, notes that current recommendations for treatment of tinnitus focus on lessening awareness of the symptoms and decreasing the impact of tinnitus on the patient’s quality of life. In patients with tinnitus, any underlying abnormalities should be treated. Patients who have sensorineural hearing loss and tinnitus should consider cochlear implantation, which improves tinnitus in 75% of these patients. Biofeedback and cognitive behavioral therapies are currently recommended, in addition to tinnitus retraining therapy.

As many as 80% of patients who undergo tinnitus retraining therapy with counseling and use of a masking technique see significant improvement in their symptoms. Although research continues in the field, newer therapies have not yet shown adequate evidence of effectiveness to replace these modalities of treatment.

New Treatments for TinnitusDr. Stephen Geller Katz is a leading New York City tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, and successfully helps patients minimize the impact of tinnitus on their lives.

 

Call today for a free 15min phone consultation 646-213-2321

What Causes Worsening Tinnitus?

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus (pronounced TIN-ih-des) is a medical condition that results in a sensation of noise in your ear, like ringing or roaring sounds. What distinguishes tinnitus from other sounds is that only you can hear the ringing or roaring. This is because tinnitus results from a condition in your body, and the causes of tinnitus vary. Tinnitus affects approximately 13 million people in the United States. The problem can range in severity, but for a quarter of the people affected by tinnitus, the condition interferes with activities of daily living. Stephen Katz, a top NYC tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, successfully treats people whose lives have been affected by severe tinnitus.

What Causes Tinnitus?

Patients who visit Stephen Katz frequently ask, “What causes tinnitus?” There are four major components of the body’s hearing apparatus. These are:

  • The outer ear
  • The middle ear
  • The inner ear
  • The brain

Damage to any of these components can leave you hearing sounds in your head. Hearing loss is a common cause of tinnitus. When we get older, many of us lose hearing over time as a result of cumulative damage to the ear from drugs, medications, periods of exposure to loud noise, and chemicals. Aging related hearing loss is caused by damage to the cochlea, a bony cavity in the inner ear that is filled with fluids and that sends signals to the brain when the fluid vibrates. Medical professionals believe that tinnitus can occur when the cochlea stops sending normal signals to the brain, due to damage as we age. The brain generates its own signals when it stops getting normal signals from the cochlea, and these signals cause the sensation of sound. Usually, people who develop tinnitus from aging related hearing loss tend to develop it in both ears, because both ears are usually subject to the same environmental stresses that cause damage over time.

Some Medications Cause Tinnitus

Sometimes a patient may develop tinnitus from taking too much aspirin. Certain powerful antibiotics are also known to cause ear damage and tinnitus, particularly aminoglycoside antibiotics.

Meniere’s Disease

Meniere’s Disease is caused by a problem in the inner ear, and results in tinnitus with hearing loss, dizziness, and balance problems. If your tinnitus is a result of Meniere’s Disease, Stephen Katz is an experienced tinnitus treatment psychotherapist in NYC and he can advise you about your best treatment options. Meniere’s Disease is a chronic problem, and often occurs in middle-aged people, but it can occur at any age, even in childhood. An experienced Manhattan tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, Stephen Katz can help you determine the best management strategy if you have Meniere’s Disease. Management of this condition can help you minimize the effect of the disease in your day-to-day activities.

Other Causes of Tinnitus

It is important to determine if your tinnitus may be the result of a tumor, like an acoustic neuroma. These tumors are rare, and tinnitus results only on the side that is affected by the tumor. An acoustic neuroma grows on the auditory nerve, which transmits signals from the ear to the brain.

Some people may have increased blood flow or even an increase in pressure in the fluid around their brain. This can also cause tinnitus that seems to be pulsatile in nature.

What Causes Tinnitus to Worsen?

If you have tinnitus, you may notice that things like excessive earwax buildup will increase the annoying sound. In fact, anything that reduces your ability to hear the sounds around you can increase the sounds your brain generates when you have tinnitus. An ear infection can also worsen tinnitus.

Minimizing Tinnitus Symptoms

There are things you can do to minimize the symptoms you experience from your tinnitus. Stephen Katz advises tinnitus patients to reduce or stop consumption of alcohol and caffeine-containing drinks. If you are a smoker, Stephen Katz will advise you to stop smoking, because nicotine causes your blood vessels to constrict, and this reduces blood flow to the ear.

You should avoid aspirin and medications like ibuprofen, known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). These medicines can increase tinnitus, particularly when taken in excess. Stephen Katz may advise to add regular exercise to improve the flow of blood to your ears. Prevent damage from loud noises by wearing protective earplugs. You should avoid stress and be sure you get adequate rest, as fatigue and stress both increase the symptoms of tinnitus.

If you have tinnitus that is new, you should see a top NYC Manhattan tinnitus treatment psychotherapist who is experienced in treatment of this troubling condition. Treatment of your tinnitus can improve your quality of life. Call today to schedule your consultation with Stephen Katz, Manhattan’s leading tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, at 646-213-2321.

Ringing Ears Treatment Doctor

Ringing Ears: it doesn’t sound as difficult as other health issues, but for many people it can be a difficult condition to manage. If you have experienced it, even temporarily, then you know the feeling. The constant noise just does not go away. It can be a soft or a loud noise. It could be a mild irritation or one that keeps you up at night.

Ringing Ears Treatment Doctor

There are numerous conditions that can cause it; numerous secondary symptoms and there is currently no cure. Even though Tinnitus is experienced by as many as 15% of the total population in the USA, there are only a small number of severe cases, and most people do not seek treatment. In fact, in some cases, they may not even know they are experiencing Tinnitus because the noise is just loud enough to be bothersome, but not so much as to be highly noticeable.

A good Ringing Ears treatment doctor can help you discover how much of your life is being affected by this condition and how much better your life can be when you manage the effects accordingly.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Tinnitus are more than just ringing or buzzing sounds in your ear. It can cause irritability, annoyance, trouble concentrating, and even depression. Difficulty sleeping is also a common symptom. This is in addition to the sound constantly playing in your ears.

Treatment Options

There are numerous treatment options including medication, behavioral and retraining therapy options. In addition, there are alternative treatments such as herbs, magnets, acupuncture, hearing aids, biofeedback, cochlear and electrical stimulation, and sound therapy. Remember there is no cure for Tinnitus. There are only ways to reduce the symptoms that you experience once you have this condition. It is important to remember with any therapy to get the advice of a qualified medical professional; especially, alternative therapy treatments. You do not have to suffer with this condition without some form of relief.

If you need a ringing ears treatment doctor, contact us for an appointment. Our New York City based office is one of the best supplying treatments and help for tinnitus symptoms.

Tinnitus Retraining Therapy

Retraining your brain sounds difficult, but it is actually something that is being done as part of the treatment options available for Tinnitus. Tinnitus, or ringing ears, involves hearing a ringing sound or even a buzzing sound all the time, even when there is nothing there to create the sound. The result can be a constant drain on the body and the mind.

What is Retraining Therapy?

The first step to understanding how retraining therapy can help as a tinnitus treatment option is to understand exactly what retraining therapy is all about. The brain gets used to certain things. It processes things a certain way. This is especially true when dealing with sound. Sound comes into the ear and then the brain has to process it. The brain believes this is the sound you should be listening too or a sound to ignore. If the brain did not do this, you would constantly be jumping at every sound you heard, as soon as it came into hearing.

In the case of Tinnitus, the brain believes this ringing or buzzing sound should be a prominent sound. This means you hear it all the time, everywhere, and it becomes part of the minute-to-minute sounds that would normally be put into the white noise category, there but ignorable.

How Retraining Therapy Works

Retraining therapy is a lot like it sounds, it is designed to retrain the brain so that it recognizes the ringing caused by this condition as a secondary sound, one that does not have any importance. For most people, this causes the sound to lessen in volume and to become easier to ignore. In this way, the stress on the mind and body of the person suffering from this condition can be eased.

There is currently no cure for this disorder and there are a variety of ways it can be caused and experienced. Retraining therapy has gained enough notoriety that it is considered by compensation and insurance programs to be an acceptable treatment option.

If you are experiencing symptoms of Tinnitus, contact us, we offer top care in NYC. We are happy to schedule an appointment for you today.

 

Tinnitus Treatments 

Tinnitus is also known as ringing ears. It is where there is a persistent buzzing or ringing in the ears, even though there is nothing there in actuality to cause the sound. The disorder can be caused by numerous factors. It could be the result of working in an environment with loud noises. It can be the result of an accident or the result of muscle spasms in the middle ear. There are even psychological and neurological reasons as to why someone might be experiencing sounds that do not have a physical cause attached to them.

Tinnitus Treatments

There are numerous treatment options available for Tinnitus. However, none of the ringing ears treatment options are going to offer a cure. As a result, most people do not pursue the necessary treatment to experience a reduction. It may be because the treatments will not bear any real fruit or it could be because the treatments are a variety of ‘let us see what works with you’ out of a hotchpotch of options.

Some of the treatments have proven effective enough that they have made their way onto the acceptable lists for compensation cases.  Behavioral cognitive therapy is one of the options to help treat ringing ears. It helps people deal with the stress that comes from having a constant sound in their ears. This constant noise wears on a person, their nerves, their ability to sleep, and their ability to concentrate. Therapy helps to relieve the stress and help people manage the symptoms with greater ease.

Cognitive Retraining Therapy works to retrain the way the brain hears sounds. This makes it possible for the mind, in essence, to tune out the sound created by the Tinnitus.

Choosing a Treatment

Ringing ears treatment options are wide enough that they can be varied to match the patient’s individual needs. The more severe the case, the more varied the treatments, but most people will be able to experience some relief with some of the treatment options available.

If you are experiencing issues with Tinnitus or think your may have this condition, contact us for trusted Tinnitus care in NYC.

Cognitive Retraining Therapy for Tinnitus 

Tinnitus, it sounds horrible but it is a simple and common disorder that involves a persistent ringing or buzzing noise in one or both ears. The problem can cause a great deal of issues for people who suffer from it; especially severe cases. The noise can be irritating, annoying, distracting; it can have a serious effect on your life. It is important to receive treatment.

It is a known and sad fact, that many people do not even receive treatment. In part, it is because, while Tinnitus is a common condition, the amount that is known about it and its causes, as well as Tinnitus treatment options, are limited. One of the treatments that is considered as part of a regime is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

This type of therapy deals with handling the stress that is caused by this condition. Another therapy that has been gaining in popularity is Cognitive Retraining Therapy.

Cognitive Retraining Therapy

While this is not a new therapy, it has only recently been accepted as a viable ringing ears treatment option. Although it has been around for a while, it has become part of the accepted options for treatment for example, worker’s compensation only recently. It works based on a neurophysiological model of the disorder. It is believed that treatment should focus on the limbic system and the automatic nervous system.

What is Cognitive Retraining Therapy?

Cognitive Retraining Therapy works on retraining the brain’s auditory responses, so that it views sounds differently. Tinnitus causes a ringing in the ear that the brain thinks is more important than other sounds or cannot recognize as a background sound. The result is that it appears louder or more prominent than other sounds.

This type of training causes your brain to view the sounds that come from the Tinnitus to be unimportant, thereby reducing the severity of the sound. This has numerous benefits including reducing the irritation, annoyance, distraction, loss of concentration, and sleep deprivation that can result from this disorder.

To schedule your appointment with one of NYC’s finest specialists in Cognitive Retraining Therapy contact us today!

Counseling Services for Tinnitus

Counseling for Tinnitus

Have you been hearing ringing in your ears but there is no actual sound? You could be experiencing a condition known as Tinnitus. This condition is also known as Ringing Ears and can be caused by several conditions. Unfortunately, there is no way to cure this condition completely. Treatments are available that can lessen the condition. There are still underlying factors; however, such as having to put up with the persistent constant noise in one or both ears.

Psychological Factors

Tinnitus often comes with psychological factors. The constant ringing noise can create mood swings, annoyance, irritation and in some cases, anger. Some people experience problems concentrating or sleeping. There are also some people who have been experiencing depression. This is why one of the Tinnitus treatment components is counseling.

Counseling

Talk therapy is one of the ringing ears treatment options when it comes to dealing with Tinnitus. There are often issues dealing with the sleep problems, concentration issues, and emotional issues that arise from the constant noise. This is generally a treatment option used for more severe cases, where the patient is not able to deal with the severity of the noise; however, it can be helpful for people with less severe cases.

If you are experiencing ringing ears, then you can understand the frustration, annoyance and even anger at the sound. It may be caused by psychological issues or it may even cause them. Counseling is a good way to resolve issues and help to lessen the impact this condition has on the sufferer’s mental state and overall ability to function.

If you are experiencing issues with this disorder, you are not alone. It is a common condition, with 10-15% of the population experiencing some form of it. Severe cases are rarer but you do not have to feel as if you are the only one suffering from this condition. Counseling can help you to manage the psychological effects and aspects of your condition, so you can control it without your condition controlling you.

For an appointment or more information, contact New York City’s trusted provider of Tinnitus treatment.

How does hearing work?

The mechanisms of hearing are complex and our understanding of them is continually evolving. Simplified, the ear translates air movements into nerve impulses sent to the brain. These impulses are then further processed based on things like location to the listener, volume and quality to determine what’s “important” and what can be ignored. The acoustics… Continue Reading

Vitamin B-12 and Tinnitus

What is Tinnitus? Tinnitus is a frustrating, chronic disorder that can – at times – make a person feel like they’re going mad. It can be related to a diagnosed medical condition or be completely idiopathic; and when the cause is unknown finding solutions is an exhausting process. Nutrition and Tinnitus Nutrition and dietary deficiencies… Continue Reading

Category Archives: Tinnitus Treatment NYC

Meditation for Tinnitus NYC

Does Meditation for Tinnitus Work?

Meditation and yoga have been proven to lessen the symptoms of tinnitus. Tinnitus is an affliction that causes ringing, clinking, whistling, pulsing, and humming in one’s ears. It Can be a great distraction to those that are not used to the noise. The best way to deal with these noises is to practice radical acceptance. Yoga and meditation can help you to reach this point of peace. Make peace with this affliction and you will be able to deal with anything life throws at you.

It has been observed that during meditation sessions, some patients reported that the ringing in their ears would subside. Or they have found that they can handle it much better after embracing its existence and meditating instead of working hard to distract themselves from it. By sitting down with correct posture and taking deep calming breaths you can begin to conquer tinnitus. Take deep breaths and let the silence of the room soothe your mind. The more you do this the less you will notice the ringing in your ears.

Even if the ringing persists, embrace it fully. Know that you are okay. Enjoy the moment and just be in the now. It may be annoying at first but from personal experience, I know that you can overcome this affliction with patience and peace of mind.

The key is to keep up this routine. Do not let negative thoughts make you reject meditation altogether. Meditation will help you to take control of everything in your life and help you to accept every part of yourself.

Go to a quiet room of your house and empty your mind of everything. The last thing you need is to stress about work or your boss because it has been proven that stress increases the ringing in your ears. It makes things worse and will do nothing but work against you. Just clear your mind and focus on your breathing and posture.

Slowly visualize things that improve your mood. This could be flowers or meadows. Some patients even enjoy visualizing rain splashing down upon the water. There are videos and CDs dedicated to emulating rainfall These are wonderful tools to use to calm your mind and get you into a mindset of peace and quiet. There are many CDs out there that contain the sounds of ocean waves splashing upon the shore.

Turn these CDs on and imagine yourself sitting on the beach and let out calm breaths. As you exhale imagine all your troubles leaving your body. Imagine your tinnitus symptoms disappearing into the waves. Calming your mind is essential.

Add meditation to your schedule. One is never too busy to meditate. Meditation is beneficial especially when you feel like your tinnitus is overwhelming to you. You can conquer this like anything else.

If you need any help with managing your symptoms you can contact us. We can help you on your way to improving your life and mindset. Conquering tinnitus comes from within and it all starts with your mindset. Instead of being a victim you can be a victor. Contact us today for guidance.

Signs and Symptoms of Tinnitus by NYC Tinnitus Expert

Symptoms of Tinnitus

There are many symptoms of tinnitus. From ringing to clinking to roaring, buzzing, and hissing. Tinnitus can take many different forms or take all at once. It can be very distressing if you do not know that tinnitus is. The main symptoms used to diagnose tinnitus include:

  • Ringing
  • Buzzing
  • Clicking
  • Hissing
  • Whistling
  • Pulsatile tinnitus

The noises may be continuous or could occur every now and then. All of these could have underlining causes, so it is best to contact a doctor if you are experiencing these symptoms. Symptoms such as fainting could be caused by a disease that needs to be diagnosed as soon as possible.

Some people find that in time their symptoms go away and with others, it stays. If your tinnitus has yet to go away and you have been living with it for years I suggest you check out our article titled ‘’Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Tinnitus’’ In that article, we talk about how much CBT can improve your life and help you to have a more positive outlook when dealing with
tinnitus.

Clicking

Clicking is a very common symptom of tinnitus. The clicking comes from swallowing. When we swallow, yawn, or blow our noses, the Eustachian tube opens and allows air to pass from the middle of your ear to the back of your nose. This symptom is very similar to pulsatile tinnitus because it is a result of damage to the nerves in your ear. Because of that you can hear things in your body that most people can’t. In pulsatile tinnitus you can hear your heartbeat but the clicking in the ear is you hearing you eustachian tubes opening with each swallow. It can be alarming and annoying but can be treated by a doctor.

Hyperacusis

tinnitus-sounds-symptoms-signs-info-03Hyperacusis is a fancy word for saying that the patient is very sensitive to sounds. Even if the sound is at a normal or low volume it may be distressing to someone that is struggling with tinnitus. It is because the brain is working overtime to compensate for the damaged nerves in your ear. So, do not fret if the tv is at a normal volume and yet it feels as if your eardrums could split at any moment. This is a normal reaction to tinnitus. It is distressing but can be helped by visiting a doctor. Hyperacusis is often the result of prolonged exposure to loud noises. This issue is most commonly viewed amongst musicians and people who work with machines or contruction.

Pulsatile tinnitus

symptoms-of-tinnitus-01

Pulsatile tinnitus is different from regular tinnitus in that you may hear rhythmical noises that beat in time with your pulse. This problem is often caused by blood flow changes in the vessels near the ear, or to a specific condition such as a perforated eardrum or atherosclerosis.

Pulsatile tinnitus tends to come and go and rarely stays the whole time. The pulsing is your heartbeat. Every time your heart thumps your ears thump with it. It can be very alarming but just know that often it will fade away. I have observed that this tends to happen after the patient has been exposed to loud noises for a long period of time and the ears are overwhelmed. It is a sign that the vessels near the ear have been damaged or irritated recently.

These symptoms are signs that you must go see a doctor as soon as possible. For help with these symptoms contact us today to schedule an appointment to treat your tinnitus. We can help you on your way to improving your life and mindset.

Can Listening to Music on Your Headphones Cause Tinnitus?

Headphones and Tinnitus

Headphones are a pair of pieces of a sound system that worn inside the confined eardrum. But sometimes excessive use of headphones can lead to cause a hearing-loss issue. Frequently listening to loud music can even give you annoying tinnitus and cause permanent damage to your ear nerves. Use of headphones while sleeping is also affected you hearing ability due to high exposure to different frequencies.

About one-third of the population of America is suffering from tinnitus as they are habitual of listening to the music through headphones. Many cases of tinnitus have been reported due to the overexposure to loud noise. The confined sound emission system of headphones can also cause irreversible damage which is often called as sensorineural.

Effect Of Headphones

Many ear infection and hearing loss problem has arisen worldwide during the past few years due to the uncontrollable use of headphones. The high-intensity features of headphones can also trigger acoustic trauma which can cause ringing in the ear and other health effects such as cardiovascular illness, sleeplessness, and reduced cognitive function.

Listening to loud music on continuous and intermitted basis can lead to ultimate tinnitus because hearing disability is the topmost cause of tinnitus. Headphones are not itself is the cause of tinnitus but comes in the list of causes. Moreover, ear buds also play the same role as headphone does.

If you have existing tinnitus symptoms, don’t ruin your eardrum more by listening to music because your central auditory filtrating system is not working in this condition. Persist high volume noise can permanently harm tympanic membrane of your ear.

But listening without the headphones will not cause serious harm to your hearing nerve, in fact, it helps you to conceal the annoying tinnitus ringing. That’s why many tinnitus treatment therapies have music aid in the list because it gives you pleasing and relaxing effect. Earmuffs, nature sound and other ambient sound is also effective in reducing the symptoms of tinnitus.

Some of the excellent headphones are available in stores which have controlled volume system, low bass and other excellent features which will not render your enjoyable activities such as rock concert and parties.

Involving healthy practices in life before it’s late to control tinnitus. Hearing aids and safe standard of listening music will also help to combat the effects.

Bottom Line

If you are not a regular user of headphones or rarely listen to songs on it, you are still not safe from tinnitus. I must say that you are still vulnerable to it because many auditory systems and speakers are ringing in your surroundings that can also put you in the line of susceptibility. But you can keep yourself safe from these dangerous effects of noise by wearing personal protective equipment. If you are a musician or singer, try not to expose yourself to noise, as it can permanently hider your professional abilities.

Call today for a free 15 min phone consultation 646-213-2321

Could Earwax Be Causing Your Tinnitus?

Could Earwax Be Causing Your Tinnitus?Wax is an important natural secretion which is mainly found in the ear. Its main purpose is to protect the ear against dirt, dust and bacteria, helping to prevent infections. Wax is made up of skin cells, dust and oily secretions which come from the glands found in the ear canal. These secretions work to lubricate the ear canal, preventing it from becoming too dry. Wax composition can vary between individuals depending on factors such as age, diet, health, environment and more.

Dealing with Earwax Build-Up

A build-up of wax in the ear is a common occurrence, which could cause worry for some people. However, if you feel that you have too much wax in one or both ears but it is not causing you any obvious problems, then it is best left alone. Since the ear is a self-cleaning part of the body, any excess earwax should be cleaned away naturally without the need for you to intervene. If you notice wax on the outer ear, then wiping it with a clean flannel or sponge may be all that is necessary.

When Problems are Caused

In most cases, a build-up of earwax is nothing to worry about and will be quickly sorted out on its own. However, in some cases, excess wax in the ear can lead to problems, such as a loss of hearing, tinnitus, or even infections. Bear in mind that putting things into the ear to clean it, such as Q-tips, can actually increase the risk of infections so is best avoided. They can also strip the ear of its natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and itchy.

Tinnitus Caused by Earwax

If you are experiencing a lot of wax in one or both of your ears and this is also accompanied by a ringing or humming sound in your head or ears, then you may be suffering from tinnitus caused by a build-up of earwax. If this is the case, then the best thing to do is see your doctor as soon as possible so that they can determine if it has been caused by an underlying issue and recommend the best course of treatment for you to take. In most cases, earwax build-up can be easily drained away by a trained professional to provide relief.

Are you suffering from tinnitus brought on by too much earwax? Get in touch today to schedule your appointment for the best tinnitus treatment in NYC.

Call today for a free 15min phone consultation 646-213-2321

7 Uncommonly Known Facts About Tinnitus

7 Uncommonly Known Facts About TinnitusTinnitus is a condition of the ear which usually manifests itself as sounds which are not coming from the external environment. People who suffer from this condition may experience hearing a buzzing, humming, ringing, or hissing sound in their ears. We’ve got the facts about this condition.

#1. Noises in the Head:

In general, tinnitus is characterized by hearing noises in the head, however, these are not usually the result of any psychiatric condition. Symptoms can vary between patients and the noises can be heard anywhere in the head, in one ear, or in both.

#2. Many Causes:

Whilst many people believe that tinnitus is caused by prolonged exposure to loud noises, the truth of the matter is that this condition can be brought on by several different reasons. Some people will develop tinnitus for no obvious reason, whilst for others, it is brought on by an infection or through hearing loss.

#3. More Common than You Think:

As a condition, tinnitus may be more common than you realize. In general, around 10-15% of adults will experience tinnitus during their lifetime, with around 50 million citizens in the U.S. suffering from this condition to some degree. Around 12 million patients have tinnitus which is so serious that they must seek medical help.

#4. Can be Caused by Stress:

7 Uncommonly Known Facts About TinnitusIf you lead a stressful life or suffer from anxiety, then you may be at a higher risk of developing tinnitus. Stress and anxiety can be common contributors to this condition; many patients who suffer from chronic stress, panic attacks, or depression are more prone to hearing ringing and other sounds in the ears.

#5. Not All Cases are Equal:

Many cases of tinnitus are caused by the brain interpreting sounds coming from the ears. Because of this, the sounds heard as a result of this condition can vary greatly between patients. While a ringing in the ears is the most common symptom, it’s not uncommon for patients to hear other sounds such as buzzing, clicking, humming, or a mixture of sounds.

#6. Smokers are at Higher Risk:

Studies have shown that smoking isn’t just bad for your heart and lungs – the toxic chemicals found in cigarette smoke can also be harmful to your ears, with known links with ear infections and tinnitus.

#7. It Causes Embarrassment:

7 Uncommonly Known Facts About TinnitusMany people suffering with tinnitus are too embarrassed to mention the condition to their friends or family, and can often be put off from seeking help.

Don’t be shy – if you’re suffering with tinnitus, get in touch with our NYC tinnitus clinic today to see what we can do for you!

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The Best Holistic Treatments for Curing Tinnitus

The Best Holistic Treatments for Curing TinnitusDo you suffer from a ringing in the ears that’s happening all too often? If so, then there’s a chance that you’re suffering from tinnitus – but don’t worry, since there are several natural treatment options out there which can help. Most experts view tinnitus as a condition which causes ringing in the ears, however, this can also be manifested as other abnormal sounds and sensations. For many, tinnitus symptoms will eventually go away as the ears adjust, however, if you have been dealing with tinnitus for some time, you might want to try one of these natural treatment options.

#1. Counseling and Coping Strategies:

Experts recommend that patients suffering with tinnitus become as educated as possible about the condition and learn how to best deal with the symptoms. This could include getting educated on biofeedback in order to control your stress reaction to tinnitus sounds, for example. If tinnitus is really beginning to get you down or make you anxious, then talking with a counselor can help you manage the emotional side effects.

#2. Avoiding Prescription Drugs or Alcohol:

The Best Holistic Treatments for Curing TinnitusResearch has shown that some prescription and over-the-counter drugs, even simple painkillers, have been known to make the symptoms of tinnitus worse. Smoking, and drinking too much alcohol, are also linked to tinnitus and can worsen the symptoms. If you believe that your medication could be the root cause of your tinnitus, then speak to your doctor about lowering your dose or switching to a different brand.

#3. De-Stress:

If you are super stressed all the time, then this can lead to inflammation in your body, a main cause of tinnitus and other ear problems such as infections and vertigo. Along with that, being stressed out can make dealing with the symptoms of tinnitus worse due to the fact that it changes how your brain reacts to the sounds heard. Chronic stress can reduce your immunity and make you more susceptible to infections, nerve damage, allergies and other ear problems. Natural stress relievers such as exercise, yoga, meditation, and calming essential oils can help tackle a tinnitus problem brought on by stress.

#4. Remove Earwax:

If you have excessive earwax, this could be a main contributing factor to your tinnitus symptoms. However, be careful when dealing with this – putting q-tips or anything else into your ear to clean it can actually contribute to blockages and damage. If you are worried that you have too much earwax which could be causing a health problem, then speak to your doctor about having it drained.

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Can Acupuncture Aid with Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a perception of sound in the ear which does not originate from the external environment, from within the body, or from hallucinations. As many as 18% of the general population living in industrialized countries suffer from this condition, with 0.5% of patients reporting that tinnitus has a major effect on their ability to lead a normal and healthy life.

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is commonly characterized as a ringing in the ear, and does not have any exact cause. The condition is usually caused by inner ear damage. However, it can also be the result of an infection in the ear, a perforated eardrum, or simply a large build-up of earwax. The condition is often presented with hearing loss, and can persist for many years in some cases. It can lead to other conditions, such as insomnia, lack of focus, and even depression in some patients.

Can Acupuncture Help?

In 2000, a systematic review concluded that so far, research had not demonstrated that acupuncture was an effective treatment for tinnitus. However, some of the studies included in the review used questionable controls, inadequate acupuncture treatments, and many were designed in a cross-over manner that is generally seen as inadequate for evaluating the effectiveness of acupuncture. So, more recent controlled trials carried out since this review have all found that acupuncture can be a source of successful relief from tinnitus, with one study even finding this ancient holistic health technique more effective than traditional Western medicine.

How Acupuncture Can Relieve Tinnitus:

Acupuncture is effective for relieving the symptoms of tinnitus in several different ways. Firstly, it can help to provide relief by acting on the cochlea, and particularly on the contractile activity of the outer hair cells. In addition, acupuncture treatments can also work on the efferent olivocochlear system in the ear; in turn, this will help to suppress any optoacoustic emissions. Acupuncture is also well-known for its ability to reduce inflammation; this is often a common cause of tinnitus and reducing inflammation in and around the ear can help to quickly relieve symptoms. It can also increase local microcirculation, which can help to reduce swelling and inflammation further. Finally, acupuncture can help to relieve the symptoms of tinnitus by altering the brain’s chemistry to increase and reduce the levels of certain neurotransmitters.

Contact the best tinnitus treatment in NYC today to see what we can do for you!

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The Tinnitus Diet: The Foods That Trigger Tinnitus

If you are suffering from tinnitus, then you might have noticed that some days, it simply gets worse for no apparent reason. If this happens, do you ever stop to think about what you have eaten? Managing your tinnitus can often all come down to eating better and understanding if there are any particular foods which are more likely to trigger it than others. Many foods can have an effect on the symptoms of tinnitus, both positively and negatively. Here’s what not to eat if you suffer from tinnitus.

#1. Fast Foods:

Fast food can be a convenient treat, however, for those with tinnitus it can simply make the symptoms a lot worse. Along with pre-packaged and processed foods, fast food contains a large amount of salt, flavor enhancers, preservatives and saturated fats which are designed to prolong shelf life or enhance the appearance and taste of the products. However, the chemicals used are not food, and can have many undesirable side effects. In general, they tend to negatively affect tinnitus and make the ringing or humming sounds louder.

#2. Salt:

Salt tends to have an immediate effect on tinnitus, which always makes it worse. Consuming too much salt will restrict the blood vessels, increase your blood pressure and reduce the flow of blood to your ears, eyes and brain. As a result, an increase in blood pressure is directly linked to the symptoms of tinnitus being increased. Bear in mind that there are high levels of salt in pre-packaged and processed foods; the best way to avoid this ingredient from worsening your tinnitus is to cook as many meals as you can from scratch so that you can control the salt level.

#3. Sugar:

Everybody knows that eating sugary foods can be bad for your teeth, weight, and overall health. But, did you know that consuming too much sugar can also be one of the main reasons that your tinnitus is getting worse instead of going away? Studies have shown that around 85-90% of people with tinnitus also suffer from a sugar metabolism disorder which is characterized by increased levels of insulin in the bloodstream, causing the body to become less sensitive to insulin and increasing the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Too much sugar can cause an imbalance of chemicals in the brain, which in turn can worsen the symptoms of tinnitus.

The Tinnitus Diet The Foods That Trigger TinnitusAre you struggling to manage your tinnitus? Get in touch with out NYC tinnitus clinic today for helpful advice!

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The 5 Most Common Causes of Tinnitus

Although the cause of tinnitus is not exactly known, it is thought to be an issue with how the ear hears sounds, along with how the brain interprets them. Tinnitus is generally characterized by a ringing sound within the ear. In many cases, tinnitus is caused by hearing loss or damage to the inner ear, however, around one in three people with this condition do not have an obvious problem with their hearing or ears. Here are the five most common causes of tinnitus.

#1. Inner Ear Damage

More often than not, tinnitus is caused by damage to the inner ear. When we hear sounds, they pass through from the outer to the inner ear, which contains the cochlea and auditory nerve. If part of the cochlea becomes damaged, it may stop sending information to your brain as effectively, which then leads to the brain ‘seeking out’ parts of the cochlea that are still working. As a result, these signals may then become over-represented in the brain, leading to the sounds of tinnitus.

#2. Earwax Build-Up

If you are suffering from tinnitus and do not have any obvious hearing loss problem, nor have suffered any damage to your ear, then this condition could be caused by something as simple as ear-wax build up. A build-up of ear-wax will block the ear, potentially leading to the sounds of tinnitus occurring. Having your ears drained by a medical professional should solve the problem.

#3. Ear Infections

Ear infections can cause temporary damage to the cochlea, leading to tinnitus-like symptoms. If you have been suffering from a cold or the flu, or are prone to ear infections, then this could be the main reason for hearing tinnitus sounds. Thankfully, your doctor should be able to help by prescribing a course of antibiotics.

#4. Meniere’s Disease

This is a condition of the inner ear that brings on sudden attacks of vertigo, pressure inside the ear, hearing loss, and tinnitus. Symptoms can vary from person to person, however, they typically tend to happen all at once and can last minutes or hours. If you think that you may have Meniere’s Disease, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

#5. Perforated Eardrum

A ruptured or perforated eardrum can lead to tinnitus-like symptoms such as a ringing sound in the ear. Although this condition will usually heal by itself within a few weeks, it’s a good idea to see your doctor to prevent infections or further damage.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment for the best tinnitus treatment in NYC.

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Tinnitus: Is There a Cure?

Tinnitus is a condition that is mainly characterized by hearing ringing, buzzing, humming or hissing sounds in the ear that are not coming from the external environment. Although there is not usually a quick fix for tinnitus, unless it is caused by an easily treatable condition such as a middle ear infection or build-up of earwax, it will usually improve gradually over time. There are a number of treatments for tinnitus available which can help you cope with this condition and better manage the symptoms.

Treating Underlying Conditions:

Firstly, if you are suffering with tinnitus, the best thing to do is speak to your doctor and have them examine your ears to determine whether the condition has been caused by an easily treatable condition. In many cases, tinnitus is a symptom of minor ear issues, such as a perforated ear drum, an infection in the middle ear, or simply a build-up of too much ear wax. If your tinnitus is caused by any one of these conditions, they will usually be easy for your doctor to treat quickly with the appropriate methods, such as a course of antibiotics or earwax draining.

Correcting Hearing Loss:

If you have tinnitus which is mainly caused by age-related hearing loss or otherwise, then dealing with the hearing loss should be the first step to solving the problem. Correcting even minor hearing loss issues can often mean that the parts of your brain which are involved in hearing will no longer need to work as hard when it comes to interpreting sounds; therefore, your brain will not pay as much attention to the tinnitus. The best course of action is to see a hearing specialist who will be able to recommend a suitable course of treatment, such as having a hearing aid fitted or in some cases, surgery.

Counseling and Therapy:

As a continuous condition, tinnitus can often be very disruptive to the life of the patient. Many patients with tinnitus report a lack of focus and concentration due to the sounds that they hear, along with trouble sleeping and in some cases, mental health issues such as depression. Tinnitus counseling can be very useful by helping you to work together with your therapist to understand the condition and find healthy ways of managing and coping with it each day.

Get in touch today to book your appointment for the best tinnitus treatment in New York!

Call today for a free 15min phone consultation 646-213-2321

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the term used to describe hearing sounds from inside your body, rather than from an external source. In most cases, tinnitus is characterized as a ringing sound inside the ears, although patients with this condition often report hearing several different sounds, including buzzing, grinding, hissing, whistling, and humming sounds. Some patients can hear sounds which are similar to music, whilst others report hearing noises that tend to beat in time with their pulse, which is known as pulsatile tinnitus. Patients with tinnitus may also notice some hearing loss and extra sensitivity to everyday sounds.

Is Tinnitus Serious?

If you are suffering with tinnitus, then the first thing that you’ll want to know is whether it is a serious condition. Thankfully, tinnitus is rarely a sign of a very serious underlying condition, and the symptoms will tend to go away after a short time for many. However, tinnitus

can sometimes present itself as a continuous condition, which is when it can begin to have a significant impact on the patient’s everyday life. Severe cases of tinnitus can cause a lot of distress, have a huge impact on ability to focus and concentrate, and can lead to difficulty sleeping or depression.

When to See a Doctor:

If you are hearing continuous sounds in one or both ears that shouldn’t be there, then the best advice is to see your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will then be able to examine your ears to determine whether the problem is caused by an easily treatable condition such as an ear infection or perforated eardrum. They will also be able to carry out simple checks to detect any loss of hearing.

What Causes Tinnitus?

There is no known exact cause for tinnitus, however, the condition can develop either gradually over time, or come on suddenly. It often happens with some degree of hearing loss, although some patients with this condition do not report any damage to their hearing. Tinnitus is most often associated with age-related hearing loss, infections in the ear, inner ear damage caused by prolonged exposure to loud noises, build-up of earwax in the ear, or Meniere’s Disease, a condition which causes other symptoms such as vertigo and hearing loss. In some cases, there is no obvious reason for tinnitus to develop.

Do you think that you might be suffering with tinnitus? Contact us today to start your treatment with our NYC tinnitus experts.

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What Does Tinnitus Sound Like?

What Does Tinnitus Sound Like?Tinnitus is a problem with the ears that is normally characterized as ringing or humming sounds coming from inside the head. Bear in mind that the sounds heard with tinnitus are exclusively heard by the patient, and nobody else. Although there is no known cause for tinnitus, it can be brought on by a number of different reasons, including damage to the inner ear, a middle ear infection, hearing loss, Meniere’s Disease, and more. So, what exactly does tinnitus sound like and how do you know if you are suffering from it?

Ringing in the Ears:

In general, tinnitus will sound like a ringing in the ears. In most cases, this does not persist, for example, in the case of tinnitus which has been brought on by prolonged exposure to loud noises, or if you attend a music festival or gig and experience a ringing sound in your ears when you leave. Most commonly, patients with tinnitus will describe a ringing sound, although the pitch of this can vary and some patients experience a ringing sound that is in line with their pulse; a condition known as pulsatile tinnitus.

What Does Tinnitus Sound Like?Other Sounds:

It’s not just a ringing sound that mainly characterizes tinnitus; many patients also describe hearing a number of other sounds, including a buzzing sound, hissing, whistling, roaring, or even sounds that are described as the release of air, or the sound of running water. Bear in mind that tinnitus is not the same for every patient, including the sounds heard – these can vary greatly depending on a number of factors including the cause of the condition, length, seriousness and more.

Dealing with the Sounds:

No matter which kind of sound you hear in your head or ears, dealing with tinnitus is never a nice experience. If you are currently experiencing a ringing, humming, hissing or other kind of sound coming from your head and not the external environment, then the best thing to do is see your doctor immediately so that they can best determine how to help you deal with the condition. In many cases, tinnitus can be caused by an easily treatable underlying condition such as an infection. If you are struggling to cope with the sounds on a day to day basis, then counseling and therapy can help you find healthy coping mechanisms and ways to manage.

Get in touch today to schedule your appointment with the best tinnitus clinic in NYC!

Call today for a free 15min phone consultation 646-213-2321

Tinnitus Sound Therapy Treatments

Tinnitus Sound Therapy TreatmentsTinnitus is a condition that results in a roaring or a ringing sound in the ear. The sound is generated inside the brain, and some doctors think this occurs when a person experiences hearing loss or other damage to the auditory nerve that carries signals from the outside world into the brain. In the absence of these external signals, the brain creates its own noise, which is experienced as sound by the person who is affected. The effects of tinnitus vary from person to person. It appears that people who focus on the sound produced as a result of tinnitus are significantly more debilitated by their condition. One technique that has shown exceptional promise to alleviate suffering from tinnitus is sound therapy. Stephen Katz is a top NYC tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, and he

Masking Techniques

Hearing aids are one technique to reduce tinnitus, and they are thought to work by increasing the external signal. When a person with tinnitus is able to “attend,” or pay attention to another signal, the internal noise generated by the brain diminishes. Use of a hearing aid is one type of sound therapy treatment, and the introduction of additional external sound stimulation masks the internal “tinnitus.”

White noise machine provide another useful therapy for masking tinnitus. By training the person with tinnitus to “attend” to the white noise, their focus on the annoying tinnitus is diminished. Stephen Katz, a top Manhattan tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, explains that although these masking techniques are still considered experimental, many patients have reported significant benefits.

What is a Masking Device?

A masking device may be about the same size as a hearing aid. The white noise produced by a masking device is more pleasant than the tinnitus to the person who is experiencing the problem. Some masking devices may include a combination of a hearing aid and white noise. The addition of a hearing aid will enable the person who is being treated to attend to external stimuli from both the environment AND from the white noise. Attention is an important component to consider when treating tinnitus. Stephen Katz, a leading Manhattan tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, uses a variety of training techniques to help patients manage the effects of tinnitus. These effects can be annoying, and they can result in disruptions of all areas of the patient’s life. A white noise machine will produce artificial sound or introduce natural sound into the patient’s ear, and although some patients find it effective, a small number of patients are as disturbed by their masking device as they are by the initial tinnitus that prompted treatment.

What Works Best?

What is a Masking Device?If you have tinnitus, you may have been told that there is no cure for your condition. However, you can certainly adapt to tinnitus, which will greatly improve your ability to live with this problem.  Stephen Katz, a tinnitus treatment psychotherapist in NYC, recommends exploration of all clinical modalities for treatment, and he has successfully treated many patients who have experienced a significant reduction in the distress they have as a result of their tinnitus.

If you are suffering from tinnitus, call 646-213-2321 today for your appoint with Stephen Katz, a leading Manhattan tinnitus treatment psychotherapist.

New Treatments for Tinnitus

 

New Treatments for Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a clinical syndrome that results in symptoms of ringing, roaring, or other sounds in the ear. These sounds are frequently not evident to others (subjective tinnitus,) but may sometimes be heard by a healthcare practitioner, particularly when the sound is the result of damage or abnormality in the blood vessels that supply the ear and the hearing apparatus. Dr. Stephen Geller Katz  leading NYC tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, can advise you about the newest treatments for tinnitus.

Can Tinnitus Be Cured?

Tinnitus can’t be “cured,” but the effects can be minimized through use of several therapies.  Dr.Stephen Geller Katz one of Manhattan’s leading tinnitus treatment psychotherapists, says learning to focus attention somewhere instead of on the sound that characterizes tinnitus is a useful strategy. Some therapies include the application of “white noise,” which tends to distract patients with tinnitus from their focus on the noise they are hearing in their head.

Research Continues for Effective Tinnitus Treatments

A Neuromonics device has been recently introduced for treatment of tinnitus. This device allows an audiologist to match the sound frequency of the patient’s tinnitus to sound generated by the device. Neuromonics tinnitus treatment uses both auditory stimulation of damaged parts of the hearing pathway and techniques for desensitization to tinnitus.

One recent treatment that has been shown to prevent hearing loss that is induced by noise is treatment with a compound that is a precursor of vitamin B3. This therapy has useful implications for prevention of age-related hearing loss, which is a primary cause of tinnitus. The chemical is called nicotinamide riboside, and protects the nerves that transmit sound from the cochlea to the brain.

New Treatments for TinnitusResearchers at Johns Hopkins discovered last year that “hair cells,” which are important to transmission of sounds to the brain, may become disorganized and result in impairment in hearing. This has important implications for treatment of tinnitus, which often results when hearing is impaired.

Low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation is currently being studied at different frequencies. Some of these treatments have resulted in statistically significant reductions of tinnitus loudness, but a 2013 review of the treatment by Theodoroff and Folmer found further studies are needed to determine the most effective procedure.

An area of study for treatment of patients with tinnitus is deep brain stimulation. Although studies of neuromodulation by this technique are promising, much more research is needed to prove consistent benefits from this treatment.

Auditory perceptual training may help patients with tinnitus, by changing neural circuitry. Most studies completed thus far have shown that patients report significant improvement in tinnitus after auditory perceptual training.

Current Recommendations: Tinnitus Retraining Therapy and Masking Techniques

Tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, notes that current recommendations for treatment of tinnitus focus on lessening awareness of the symptoms and decreasing the impact of tinnitus on the patient’s quality of life. In patients with tinnitus, any underlying abnormalities should be treated. Patients who have sensorineural hearing loss and tinnitus should consider cochlear implantation, which improves tinnitus in 75% of these patients. Biofeedback and cognitive behavioral therapies are currently recommended, in addition to tinnitus retraining therapy.

As many as 80% of patients who undergo tinnitus retraining therapy with counseling and use of a masking technique see significant improvement in their symptoms. Although research continues in the field, newer therapies have not yet shown adequate evidence of effectiveness to replace these modalities of treatment.

New Treatments for TinnitusDr. Stephen Geller Katz is a leading New York City tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, and successfully helps patients minimize the impact of tinnitus on their lives.

 

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What Causes Worsening Tinnitus?

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus (pronounced TIN-ih-des) is a medical condition that results in a sensation of noise in your ear, like ringing or roaring sounds. What distinguishes tinnitus from other sounds is that only you can hear the ringing or roaring. This is because tinnitus results from a condition in your body, and the causes of tinnitus vary. Tinnitus affects approximately 13 million people in the United States. The problem can range in severity, but for a quarter of the people affected by tinnitus, the condition interferes with activities of daily living. Stephen Katz, a top NYC tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, successfully treats people whose lives have been affected by severe tinnitus.

What Causes Tinnitus?

Patients who visit Stephen Katz frequently ask, “What causes tinnitus?” There are four major components of the body’s hearing apparatus. These are:

  • The outer ear
  • The middle ear
  • The inner ear
  • The brain

Damage to any of these components can leave you hearing sounds in your head. Hearing loss is a common cause of tinnitus. When we get older, many of us lose hearing over time as a result of cumulative damage to the ear from drugs, medications, periods of exposure to loud noise, and chemicals. Aging related hearing loss is caused by damage to the cochlea, a bony cavity in the inner ear that is filled with fluids and that sends signals to the brain when the fluid vibrates. Medical professionals believe that tinnitus can occur when the cochlea stops sending normal signals to the brain, due to damage as we age. The brain generates its own signals when it stops getting normal signals from the cochlea, and these signals cause the sensation of sound. Usually, people who develop tinnitus from aging related hearing loss tend to develop it in both ears, because both ears are usually subject to the same environmental stresses that cause damage over time.

Some Medications Cause Tinnitus

Sometimes a patient may develop tinnitus from taking too much aspirin. Certain powerful antibiotics are also known to cause ear damage and tinnitus, particularly aminoglycoside antibiotics.

Meniere’s Disease

Meniere’s Disease is caused by a problem in the inner ear, and results in tinnitus with hearing loss, dizziness, and balance problems. If your tinnitus is a result of Meniere’s Disease, Stephen Katz is an experienced tinnitus treatment psychotherapist in NYC and he can advise you about your best treatment options. Meniere’s Disease is a chronic problem, and often occurs in middle-aged people, but it can occur at any age, even in childhood. An experienced Manhattan tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, Stephen Katz can help you determine the best management strategy if you have Meniere’s Disease. Management of this condition can help you minimize the effect of the disease in your day-to-day activities.

Other Causes of Tinnitus

It is important to determine if your tinnitus may be the result of a tumor, like an acoustic neuroma. These tumors are rare, and tinnitus results only on the side that is affected by the tumor. An acoustic neuroma grows on the auditory nerve, which transmits signals from the ear to the brain.

Some people may have increased blood flow or even an increase in pressure in the fluid around their brain. This can also cause tinnitus that seems to be pulsatile in nature.

What Causes Tinnitus to Worsen?

If you have tinnitus, you may notice that things like excessive earwax buildup will increase the annoying sound. In fact, anything that reduces your ability to hear the sounds around you can increase the sounds your brain generates when you have tinnitus. An ear infection can also worsen tinnitus.

Minimizing Tinnitus Symptoms

There are things you can do to minimize the symptoms you experience from your tinnitus. Stephen Katz advises tinnitus patients to reduce or stop consumption of alcohol and caffeine-containing drinks. If you are a smoker, Stephen Katz will advise you to stop smoking, because nicotine causes your blood vessels to constrict, and this reduces blood flow to the ear.

You should avoid aspirin and medications like ibuprofen, known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). These medicines can increase tinnitus, particularly when taken in excess. Stephen Katz may advise to add regular exercise to improve the flow of blood to your ears. Prevent damage from loud noises by wearing protective earplugs. You should avoid stress and be sure you get adequate rest, as fatigue and stress both increase the symptoms of tinnitus.

If you have tinnitus that is new, you should see a top NYC Manhattan tinnitus treatment psychotherapist who is experienced in treatment of this troubling condition. Treatment of your tinnitus can improve your quality of life. Call today to schedule your consultation with Stephen Katz, Manhattan’s leading tinnitus treatment psychotherapist, at 646-213-2321.

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Vitamin B-12 and Tinnitus

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Tinnitus Cognitive Center™

Stephen Geller Katz, LCSW-R
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