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We get so many questions on a regular basis about tinnitus that we thought we would share a few common questions and answers on this topic. Tinnitus affects nearly one in six people who report being impacted by ringing in the ears. The aim is to try and assist in dispelling common misconceptions and increasing understanding of the tinnitus condition, whether it is to help yourself or a loved one hear better and live better.

How do I know if I have tinnitus?

Tinnitus is described in layman’s terms as ringing, buzzing, or hissing in the ears. The symptoms for tinnitus are different for each person. Some may only hear it when in a quiet room while others hear those disturbing sounds all the time. But it is important to keep in mind that tinnitus is a symptom, not a diagnosis. And we highly recommend getting it diagnosed properly by our owner audiologist, Sybrand Strauss, so that you can get the suited treatment.

Can certain medications cause tinnitus?

Yes, Tinnitus is a potential side effect of many medications including aspirin, diuretics, antidepressants, chemotherapy drugs, and certain antibiotics.

What should I do if I have tinnitus?

Unfortunately, there are no cures for tinnitus. But there are a few approaches to assist in making it much more bearable that give a lot of people relief. These approaches to tinnitus include counselling and sound therapy. The protocol of treatment is tailored to each person because everybody’s symptoms are different. The best way to start and tackle this is to make sure that you see our owner audiologist, Sybrand Strauss, for a consultation.

If I have tinnitus, do I also have hearing loss?

In many cases, tinnitus is a symptom or side effect of hearing loss. However, there are certain people that can have tinnitus without hearing loss. Tinnitus can be the first indicator of some damage to the auditory system.

Are there things that make tinnitus worse?

Factors that can increase the effects of tinnitus include excess caffeine, salt, stress, exposure to loud noises, and some medications.

Are hearing aids my only option for treating tinnitus?

Hearing aids aren’t the only option for treating Tinnitus. It is a great starting point however, but there are many other treatments available. It is the best option to visit our owner audiologist, Sybrand Strauss, so that you can discuss therapy and/or which lifestyle changes should be taken.

Will tinnitus come back when I take the hearing aids off?

For some people, the tinnitus does come back when they take their hearing aids off. And for others, their tinnitus might not be as loud as it was before they were wearing their hearing aids. It is really different for each person.

Our owner audiologist, Sybrand Strauss, specialises in tinnitus treatment and is here to help you with your healing journey. It all starts with a consultation and then he can map out a treatment path for you.

About Strauss Audiology
Strauss Audiology is a professional audiology business in the northern suburbs of Cape Town, offering expert, effective hearing advice that is tailored to clients’ unique hearing needs. We conduct hearing evaluations, hearing tests and vertigo assessments, and provide a range of solutions to improve and protect clients’ hearing. This includes providing hearing aids to Cape Town clients. With 16 years of experience, and with the qualifications and certifications to deliver leading hearing care, you can trust us to take care of your hearing needs.

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