Information regarding tinnitus, hyperacusis, and hearing status is obtained. Secondly, there is a medical evaluation performed by an otolaryngologist. 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. The final part of TRT focuses on sound therapy.
Sound therapy is important for several reasons.
First, it is important for the brain to be aware that the ear is functioning. If the brain believes that the ear is functioning and is transmitting information, it will in turn decrease the neuronal responses to irrelevant signals. Secondly, sound therapy is used to decrease the contrast of the tinnitus signal with other sounds. Very often, people seem to be aware or more bothered by the tinnitus if the environment is quiet. For example, when trying to fall asleep at night and the house is very quiet.