Tinnitus: A Comprehensive Review of Treatment Modalities

Abstract

Tinnitus is caused by auditory dysfunction, and it affects about 10 -15% of the adult population. fortunately, in most cases, it is not dangerous however, in 20% of cases it can be life-disturbing especially with aging. Several types of therapies have been found to have a rule in the management of tinnitus including voice therapy, vagus nerve stimulation, hyperbaric oxygen therapy as well as a pharmacological intervention using several medications such as anesthetic, anticonvulsant, antidepressant anxiolytic, and antihistamine. The focus of treatment for tinnitus should include the annoyance associated with the tinnitus. Therefore, tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT) principle which includes meticulous diagnosis, educational counselling, and sound base therapy should be followed in all patients. The optimal results in the management of tinnitus can be achieved by proper counselling and patient education, in addition to providing an acoustic environment and the use of drugs that control some of the symptoms associated with tinnitus.