Hearing Care Column

LIVING WITH TINNITUS

Tinnitus is the phantom ringing, buzzing, and whistling in the ear that arises from a malfunction in the ear, auditory nerve, or the brain. This noise that no one other than the person affected can hear is nearly always accompanied by hearing loss. The millions of tinnitus sufferers who annually seek medical advice for tinnitus are usually referred to an otolaryngologist and an audiologist for a hearing test. While some find that the condition can be silenced by treating an underlying condition (such as ear-wax buildup), most must find some way to live with it. Many are helped with hearing instruments that increase the sounds they want to hear and drown out those they don’t with built-in sound maskers.

At FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER, we recognize that there are varied needs and uses for different kinds of hearing instruments. We carry a full range of styles of hearing aids because we want our patients to end up with the right kind of hearing aid that will enable them to hear to their best ability. And whether you’re dealing with tinnitus or hearing loss, you can count on us at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, for free hearing tests, experienced, knowledgeable recommendations, evaluations, fittings, and follow-up support. We can be reached at 781-337-1144. We accept most HMOs, State GIC, Union Benefits, and Mass Health.

P.S. While “subjective tinnitus” can only be heard by the tinnitus sufferer, the rare “objective tinnitus” can be heard by the examining doctor and may be caused by a blood vessel problem, an inner ear bone condition, or a muscular issue.