Skip to main content

Mobile Phone Therapy for Tinnitus


Women listening to phone with earbuds; tinnitus treatment concept

Researchers at the University of Auckland developed a mobile-phone-based therapy last year that has shown clinically significant improvements in patients with tinnitus.

The clinical trial was extremely small, with 61 patients. Half were given the new treatment and the other half used a white noise app. Those 31 people using the "new digital polytherapeutic" prototype showed "clinically significant improvements at 12 weeks, while the other group (30 people) did not."

The trial participants were instructed to aim for a minimum of two hours of total use per day for 12 weeks. 

The device uses a personalized treatment plan that "essentially rewires the brain in a way that de-emphasizes the sound of the tinnitus to a background noise that has no meaning or relevance to the listener." So, it's not a cure per se, but a treatment that can improve the lives of people who are bothered by their tinnitus.

The original research article was published in Frontiers in Neurology and the story reported in Science Daily.

According to Science Daily, "the next step will be to refine the prototype and proceed to larger local and international trials with a view to FDA approval."




Try Eargasm Earplus

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

3 Highly Effective Stress Management Methods Every Tinnitus Sufferer Can Master

The constant noise of tinnitus can make it difficult to concentrate, sleep, or relax, which in turn, amplifies stress and anxiety. Stress management, then, plays a key role in mitigating the impact of tinnitus.  Here are three highly effective methods that every tinnitus sufferer can master to manage stress and improve overall well-being. Mindfulness Meditation Mindfulness meditation is a simple yet powerful tool for reducing stress and anxiety, especially for those with tinnitus. The goal is to train your mind to stay in the present moment rather than fixating on the internal noise or the stress it causes. Research has shown that regular mindfulness practice can lower stress levels, increase focus, and reduce the perceived intensity of tinnitus sounds. How to Get Started   Begin by setting aside 10-15 minutes each day to sit in a quiet space. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, paying attention to the sensation of air entering and leaving your body. If your mind dr...

10-Minute Daily Yoga Routine: Ease Tinnitus Symptoms and Promote Relaxation

Living with tinnitus can be incredibly challenging, but incorporating a short, targeted yoga routine into your daily life can make a significant difference. This 10-minute practice is designed to help you find moments of peace, reduce stress, and potentially alleviate some of your tinnitus symptoms.  Consistency is key – even on your toughest days, try to carve out these few minutes for yourself. Setting the Stage for Success Before we dive into the routine, let's create an environment that supports your practice: • Choose a quiet space: While silence might amplify tinnitus for some, a quiet room allows you to focus on your breath and movements without external distractions. • Dim the lights: Soft lighting can help calm your nervous system and reduce visual stimuli that might compete with your tinnitus. • Use a non-slip mat: Safety first – ensure you have a stable surface for your practice. • Wear comfortable clothing: Loose, breathable fabrics allow for easier movement and help yo...

Can Allergies Cause Tinnitus?

The short answer is: Yes, allergies can cause tinnitus. Hearing loss, too.  Allergy-related tinnitus is typically due to the congestion that allergies cause. Anything from allergic rhinitis (hay fever) to sinus infections increases the risk of developing tinnitus.  Basically anything that affects the nasal and sinus passages can lead to tinnitus. That's because when allergies affect the nasal passages and sinuses, they can cause inflammation and swelling, leading to congestion and pressure changes in the ear. This pressure change can lead to tinnitus. Allergy meds can be a problem too Tinnitus can also be a side effect of certain medications used to treat allergies, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin. These medications can potentially cause tinnitus as a side effect, especially when taken in high doses. Other causes of tinnitus In addition to allergies, there are several other causes of tinnitus. In some cases, tinnitus can be a symptom of an u...