Do you feel a strange buzz in your ear or excess ringing even though there is no sound around you? This condition is called Tinnitus. According to research, 750 million people around the world suffer from Tinnitus. Tinnitus is a disease characterized by the perception of noise or ringing in the ears without any sound source. A significant number of people around the world suffer from this condition, however, no proper treatment has been discovered for this disease so far.
Cause and Diagnosis of Tinnitus
Tinnitus could be a side effect of various drugs. A medical specialist performs a physical examination to determine the cause of the disease. If the issue persists, then the case may be referred to an otologist or audiologist (hearing specialist).
These specialists perform nerve tests to assess any damage to internal nerves that may cause this condition. An audiogram is performed to rule out further abnormalities. However, if the problem persists, then an MRI or CT scan could be done to identify any structural problem or the existence of a tumor.
Although there is no definite treatment plan for Tinnitus, innovative approaches are being adopted by experimental medicine experts. According to experts at Early Access Care (EarlyAccess.com), “path-breaking work has been done to identify a cure for Tinnitus, and the emergence of new drugs could enable people to fight this condition more effectively.”
Some of the new approaches introduced by healthcare experts to fight this condition include:
1. Gene Therapy
Various genetic abnormalities cause Tinnitus. Gene therapy is a great way to identify abnormalities and treat them promptly. Gene therapy could target the cells responsible for auditory processing and reverse any damage in the initial stage. It will also prevent the nerves from being affected by the disease.
2. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Scientists are using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to treat Tinnitus. In experimental medicine, CBT is joined with biofeedback that helps patients control their responses and monitor their hearing capabilities.
3. Dietary Supplements
Scientists believe that adding a few multivitamins or mineral supplements could eliminate Tinnitus. Supplements that have proven effective include Magnesium, Melatonin, vitamins B6 and B12, vitamins A & C, Phosphorus, Potassium, and Zinc. However, medical boards or the Food and Drug Administration have not authorized any specific supplement. It is still ambiguous which supplements can prove to be an effective remedy.
4. Use of Neuromodulators
Clinical trials have shown the immense benefits of neuromodulators. They can change the neurological pathways in the brain, causing a combination of sound and electrical nerve stimulation that reduces the impact of Tinnitus.
5. Transcranial Current Stimulation
Researchers believe that hyper-neural activity can stimulate Tinnitus. An efficient way to reduce hyper-neural activity is through a non-invasive electromagnetic treatment called transcranial current stimulation. An electromagnetic pulse or signal is sent through the brain via electrodes to target the brain tissue. Studies suggest that more than 40% of Tinnitus patients have benefitted from this treatment plan. The percentage is improving further. More clinical trials are needed to ensure greater efficacy of this treatment.
6. Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Vagus nerve stimulation has proven effective in treating various mental health issues e.g., depression and epilepsy. Researchers are considering this treatment for Tinnitus as well. The Vagus nerve connects the brain to the heart and digestive system; therefore, it is a crucial connecting nerve. Electrical stimulation to the vagus nerve can amend the neural pathways and may cause improvement in the condition of Tinnitus patients.
7. Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is an emerging treatment that uses low-intensity lasers to stimulate and repair cells in the auditory system. It helps to fade away sounds and enables one to deal with Tinnitus effectively. The treatment is not implemented in many countries and a few medical centers have started implementing this technology.
8. Exposure to White Noise
Sound therapy for Tinnitus is a common treatment. Patients are exposed to white noise to distract them from the sensations and ringing sounds. White noise helps the brain to recalibrate and adjust to a different sound. White noise therapy offers long-term relief to patients and improves auditory sense over time.
Conclusion
Tinnitus is a complex condition and poses challenges for patients and doctors. Persistent ringing sounds even affect the mental health condition of a few patients. Traditional treatment methods, such as sound therapy and CBT, do provide temporary relief, but a definite cure is only possible through the introduction of an innovative treatment technique. Experimental medicine can play a transformational role for patients in the future, especially neuromodulation therapies. These new therapies can provide hope to those who suffer from Tinnitus. Although experimental treatments are relatively new, possibilities lie ahead.
