Do you accept my insurance for hearing aids?

We work with all major insurance providers including Medicare, Medicaid, PPO, HMO plans, and workers' compensation claims. Our insurance specialists will verify your benefits and help maximize your coverage to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

What makes California Hearing Center different?

We are the first clinic worldwide to receive the Inspired by Ida quality benchmark for person-centered care. With over 27 years of experience, we combine cutting-edge technology with personalized care, taking time to understand your individual needs and lifestyle.

What services do you provide?

We offer comprehensive hearing evaluations, hearing aid fitting and programming, tinnitus management, balance testing, custom ear protection, and ongoing hearing healthcare support using state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment.

Decoding the Buzz: Understanding Tinnitus and Your Options

Do you ever experience a persistent ringing in your ears, a constant buzz, a high-pitched whine, or even a rhythmic pulsing sound that no one else seems to hear? If so, you’re not alone. This phenomenon is known as tinnitus, and it affects millions of people worldwide. While often described as a “ringing,” tinnitus can manifest in many different forms, making it a unique and sometimes challenging experience for each individual.

At California Hearing Center, we understand the frustration and impact that tinnitus can have on your daily life. Our goal is to provide comprehensive information and effective tinnitus treatment options to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.

What Exactly is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is not a disease itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying condition. It’s the perception of sound when no external sound is present. This phantom sound can be intermittent or constant, vary in pitch and intensity, and be heard in one ear or both. While often associated with hearing loss, tinnitus can also be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Noise-induced hearing loss: Exposure to loud noises is a common culprit, damaging the delicate hair cells in the inner ear.
Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis): As we age, our hearing naturally declines, and tinnitus can sometimes accompany this process.
Earwax blockage: A buildup of earwax can sometimes press against the eardrum, causing tinnitus.
Ménière’s disease: This inner ear disorder can cause vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, and tinnitus.
TMJ disorders: Issues with the temporomandibular joint can sometimes lead to tinnitus.
Certain medications: Some drugs can be ototoxic, meaning they can damage the ear and cause tinnitus as a side effect.
Head or neck injuries: Trauma to these areas can sometimes affect the auditory pathways.
Vascular conditions: Rarely, blood vessel disorders near the ear can cause pulsatile tinnitus, a type of tinnitus that beats in sync with your heartbeat.

If you’re concerned about any of these potential causes, it’s crucial to consult with an audiologist for a proper diagnosis. You can learn more about our diagnostic services by visiting our services page at calhearing.com.

Understanding Your Tinnitus Options

While there is currently no “cure” for tinnitus, there are many effective strategies and tinnitus management options available to help reduce its impact and improve your well-being. The best approach often depends on the underlying cause and the severity of your symptoms. Here are some common options:

1. Hearing Aids with Tinnitus Masking Features

For many individuals with tinnitus and hearing loss, hearing aids can provide significant relief. Modern digital hearing aids can amplify external sounds, making the tinnitus less noticeable. Furthermore, many advanced hearing aid models now come equipped with built-in tinnitus masking features. These features generate a soothing sound, such as white noise or ocean sounds, to distract the brain from the tinnitus, providing immediate relief. Learn about our range of hearing aid solutions at California Hearing Center’s hearing aid section.

2. Sound Therapy

Sound therapy involves using external sounds to alter your perception of tinnitus. This can range from simple background noise (like a fan or humidifier) to specialized tinnitus sound generators. The goal is to either mask the tinnitus entirely or to habituate your brain to the sound, making it less bothersome over time. We can guide you through various sound therapy options available.

3. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT)

Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) is a comprehensive program that combines sound therapy with counseling. The aim of TRT is to help your brain reclassify the tinnitus sound as neutral and unimportant, thereby reducing your emotional reaction to it. This long-term approach helps patients achieve tinnitus habituation and improve their overall quality of life. Our audiology professionals can discuss if TRT is a suitable option for you.

4. Counseling and Lifestyle Modifications

Understanding tinnitus and learning coping strategies can significantly reduce its impact. Counseling can help you manage stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances often associated with tinnitus. Additionally, certain lifestyle changes can be beneficial, such as:

Reducing caffeine and nicotine intake.
Managing stress levels through relaxation techniques.
Ensuring adequate sleep.
Protecting your ears from loud noises with hearing protection.

Our team at California Hearing Center is here to provide support and guidance.

When to See an Audiologist

If you’re experiencing persistent tinnitus, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with an audiology professional. A comprehensive hearing evaluation will help determine the cause of your tinnitus and allow your audiologist to recommend the most appropriate tinnitus relief strategies. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes.

Don’t let the buzz control your life. Take the first step towards understanding and managing your tinnitus. Visit calhearing.com today to schedule your consultation and explore your tinnitus solutions. We are dedicated to providing expert hearing care and helping you regain control over your sound environment.

For more information on common audiology terms and conditions, feel free to browse our website at calhearing.com.