Hyperacusis and Reactive Tinnitus — Help with Sound Generators & Treatment Methods?

@Michael Leigh
Just an update. I have had my sound generators for 3 days now. I have been using them at 1 hour intervals at the lowest volume. However, my tinnitus spikes afterward with a high pitched ringing sound for a few hours. It is normal for the T to spike when first using the sound generators?

 

HI @LynsieIndiana

It is not unusual for tinnitus to spike when using white noise generators for the first time, or in the introductory phase as you are in. I hope you now see the reasons I suggested to slowly introduce the WNGs to the ears and auditory system, instead of putting them on and wearing them continuously for 6hrs or more as some Audiologists suggest.

If the tinnitus reduces after a while, perhaps 30 mins then this may not be a matter for concern - since your tinnitus spikes for a few hours you may have to reduce the wearing time to just 30 mins intervals and build up/increase wearing time slowly, see how you get on. Try not to give up because this is what some people do, and then say: White noise generators spike my tinnitus so can't wear them, without giving them a fair chance.

This treatment is a slow process and needs patience and perhaps a little discomfort has to be endured too. My tinnitus did spike when I first used WNGs, but I persisted and my auditory system become more tolerant and the (hyperacusis) oversensitivity to sound decreased and was eventually fully cured. I am not saying you should endure prolonged discomfort or distress- just see what you're able to reasonably cope with and adjust the wearing time of WNGs accordingly.

Michael

PS: If the tinnitus spikes after 30mins wearing time of WNGs, then reduce to 15mins wearing time. Take them off for 3o, 40 or 60 mins, then Put them on again for 15mins and slowly increase wearing time.

 

I appreciate this thread. I'm in LA and meet with a specialist since 97 on hyperacusis. Today I will start my programming with him.
Wish me luck.

 

Will you be wearing white noise generators and having counselling with your specialist?

 

Yes that is the treatment he will start with, then CBT and then we will see in 8 weeks to make adjustments.

 

That sounds good. Remember to use sound enrichment at night by using a sound machine by the bedside. You can attach a pillow speaker to it or under pillow speakers. Sound Oasis sound machines are good. Model S-650 is popular. Keep the volume slightly below the tinnitus as it should not mask it. When you start using the white noise generators, start off slowly: wear for 1 or 2 hrs then take them off the for same duration. Put them back on after the elapsed time. The idea is to slowly build up the wearing time to 6 to 8hrs a day continuous. If you try start off wearing them for 6 to 8hrs straight, they may irritate your ears.

These are suggestions best of luck.
Michael

 

Hi @Lola808 ! Glad you are getting treatment. How are you doing otherwise?

 

I'm having some insane dizzy spells. This is new. The treatment today was ok I'm starting off very low. Just took them out. Now t is spiking was low all day. Nights around 8 are worst for tinnitus and hyperacusis.

 

Hi @Lola808 ! Sorry to hear that. Do you know what's causing the dizzy spells? I had that last November at the onset of my t, it was awful! I hope you feel better soon!

 

I got you. Someone in the forums provided this page on broadband noise. I'm not a doctor and this information is not to be taken as medical advice. Please consult with your doctor:

https://sites.google.com/site/johnsaudiopage/broadband-noise-therapy-1