So you have determined you have tinnitus. You have seen your audiologist, discussed your concerns and tests have been done. You have now been diagnosed with tinnitus. So what can be done to help you out? How can you get rid of this annoying noise that is always in your head?

While studies are being done, there is no known cure for tinnitus. Luckily, however, there are options available to help mask and lessen the constant ringing. Hearing aids are one major step in helping people with tinnitus.

But how does something designed to help you hear better, help you hear less of something?

 Hearing aids can be programed with a setting that essentially cancels out the noise you hear in your head. The hearing aid will still function properly in each environment you are in, whether quiet or loud environments, or on the telephone, but it has been programed with a noise that mimics the sound in your ears to cancel it out. Essentially the sound of the tinnitus is masked by the sound produced by the hearing aid. This sound from the hearing aid helps to alleviate the stress and anxiety associated with tinnitus and encourages the person to be more active and outgoing.

Due to advancements made in hearing aids over the recent years, numerous individuals with tinnitus have gained relief from the constant sound. An audiologist is able to better program a hearing aid to the specific needs required to properly mask the tinnitus sound a person has. The new technology also makes it easier to make future adjustments as needed as well, making it easier and more enjoyable for the person with tinnitus and the hearing health professional.

Because hearing aids should not be worn when sleeping, noise suppression devices are recommended at bed time for individuals with tinnitus. The white noise produced by a noise suppression device is designed to help mask the tinnitus as you fall asleep and throughout the night.