Tinnitus Retraining Therapy: What to Expect During Treatment

Tinnitus is a common problem that affects up to 20% of the population. This condition causes the perception of sound in the ears, like buzzing, ringing, and clicking. Tinnitus occurs more often with age and can have an underlying cause like an ear injury, hearing loss, or circulatory disorders.

The constant noise can lead to sleep disturbances and high levels of stress. Tinnitus therapy helps to alleviate the annoying symptoms of tinnitus so that sufferers can manage their conditions. This specialized therapy uses sound and counseling to help patients grow more accustomed to the noises produced in their ears so they are less bothersome.

What Is TRT?

Those suffering from this condition need to learn about tinnitus retraining therapy, developed by neuroscientist Dr. Pawel Jastreboff. The goal of treatment is to help patients slowly become less aware of the noises in their ears, helping reduce the negative impacts of tinnitus.

Sound therapy uses sounds that compete with tinnitus noises, masking them. Counseling helps tinnitus patients cope with their condition and change their perspective on the noises their ears produce. TRT addresses tinnitus’s psychological and auditory aspects, gradually helping patients notice the noises less and less so they are no longer bothered by the intrusion.

The Assessment

The first step in TRT is for the patient to undergo an initial assessment. The assessment takes place with an audiologist or tinnitus specialist. The patient will undergo hearing tests and an examination to determine the severity of tinnitus. The initial assessment results will help the audiologist form a treatment plan to ensure the patient’s benefits of TRT.

Educational Counseling

Educating the patient on their condition helps them understand the complexities of tinnitus and that, although annoying, it is not harmful to their health. During each session, patients receive educational materials and guidance. They can ask questions to help them understand the condition better.

A counselor will work with the patient to help them overcome their negative feelings about tinnitus. Changing their thinking can help those with tinnitus feel less anxious and depressed. Counseling helps tinnitus patients better control their condition and how they respond to the noises.

Sound Therapy

Sound therapy is an integral part of TRT. Audiologists introduce external sounds that can help mask tinnitus and make the condition more bearable. Although this therapy may not eliminate the sounds, patients find the sounds reduced as their brains focus more on the external sounds than the perceived sounds in the ears.

How Long Does TRT Last?

The duration of TRT varies among patients, depending on the severity of their condition and how they respond. TRT does not produce results immediately, and relief may take up to two years. With each session, small improvements are noticed until the patient achieves optimal improvements. It is important to keep up with appointments and all testing. Stay active in treatment for the best results.

Overcoming the Sounds of Tinnitus Requires Ongoing Effort

TRT is a promising treatment for tinnitus sufferers. Invented in the 1990s, it has helped many people better manage their symptoms and live a more stress-free life. Some people will notice improvements within a few weeks, while others may need more treatment to see success.

TRT works most effectively when patients involve themselves in the process and seek regular therapy to ensure effective treatment.