We are the tinnitus specialists in Taranaki

What is it?

Tinnitus is a condition where a noise often described as a ringing is heard within the ear that is not related to any outside sound. It’s a fairly common problem that occurs in about 17% of New Zealanders to some degree. We understand that Tinnitus can be difficult to deal with at first, but we offer a number of effective solutions to help manage the condition.

How can we help?

Our audiology specialists have undergone training from some of the leading tinnitus experts in the world. Just recently they attended an intensive course run by Dr Hasher Aazh, a respected tinnitus specialist from the Royal Surrey County Hospital in England, along with Dr Richard Tyler from the University of Iowa. Sandra and Hilton, Central Audiology’s tinnitus experts, have since begun implementing techniques from the course, giving clients access to the latest, most advanced treatment. This extensive research and more enlightened approach to tinnitus will provide those experiencing tinnitus with a plan designed to work specifically for them. This can greatly improve overall quality of life and help manage ongoing symptoms of tinnitus.

What causes Tinnitus?

Often tinnitus is caused by damage to the hair cells of the inner ear. However there are other possible factors including:

• Trauma to the head or ear
• Burst eardrums
• Medical operation
• Ear infections
• Some medications
• Neck and jaw injuries
• Meniere’s disease
• Loud music
• Earwax

Any number of these factors can result in damage to the nerve endings and fine hairs in your inner ear, which prevents signals being received by the brain. Your brain then compensates for this by creating noise (tinnitus).

How can you treat tinnitus?

As tinnitus is not a disease there is no ‘magical pill’ that can cure the condition. However, there are many effective ways to manage and treat it.

We’re experts in Tinnitus treatment, and believe the first step to improvement is making sure you have a full understanding of your condition. Once you’ve had your first consultation we’ll begin treatment with a plan best suited to your needs. Treatments include:

• Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Sound Enrichment Therapy

What can I try at home?

You can try some retraining exercises at home. Including:

• Evaluating your emotional reaction to tinnitus for just 10 seconds per day
• Practice relaxation techniques
• Concentrate on external environment noises
• Listen to calming nature sounds in quiet environments such as bedtime