Treatment - Tinnitus

There's no single treatment for tinnitus that works for everyone.

If your tinnitus is caused by another condition, treating that condition will help. For example, if your tinnitus is caused by an earwax build-up, eardrops or ear irrigation may be used.

If the cause of your tinnitus is unknown or can't be treated, your GP or specialist may refer you for a type of talking therapy.

This could be:

• tinnitus counselling
• cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
• tinnitus retraining therapy

Treatment may also focus on helping you manage the condition on a daily basis.

Managing tinnitus yourself

Things you can try to ease tinnitus:

• Try to relax – deep breathing or yoga may help.
• Follow some tips for good sleep if your tinnitus affects it.
• Join a support group – talking to other people with tinnitus may help you cope.

Try not to focus on the tinnitus. This can make it worse. Hobbies and activities can help take your mind off it.

Therapies that can treat tinnitus

Sound therapy

Listening to soft music or sounds can distract you from the tinnitus. Don't have total silence.

Tinnitus counselling

Therapy that aims to educate you about tinnitus and help you learn to cope with it.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

CBT is a type of therapy that aims to help change the way you think about your tinnitus. It can help your tinnitus to becomes less noticeable.

Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT)

TRT is a type of therapy that aims to help retrain the way your brain responds to tinnitus. This can help you to tune the sound out and become less aware of it.

Support groups

Chime is the national charity for deafness and hearing loss. They can provide support if you have tinnitus.

Read information from Chime on tinnitus counselling therapies and support groups - chime.ie

You can also call Chime on 1800 256 257 or by email - rejoin@chime.ie