Information regarding tinnitus, hyperacusis, and hearing status is obtained. Next, the counseling session involves an in-depth discussion of the tests, anatomy and physiology of the hearing mechanism and how it relates to tinnitus and hyperacusis. This portion of the program focuses on educating the patient and helps to relieve their fears and concerns. The final part of the appointment focuses on the use of sound therapy. This protocol attempts to restore normal sensitivity to sound.
Sound therapy is used to get the brain to decrease the central auditory gain.
Sound therapy involves the use of noise generating instruments. These instruments emit a very soft pleasant sound that is not heard by others and does not interfere with hearing and are used under the supervision of an experienced audiologist. If a patient has hyperacusis and tinnitus , hyperacusis is addressed first.