Audiology features
The emotional weight of tinnitus
Health professionals often overlook the considerable impact tinnitus has on the individual, from its emotional burden to its complex relationship with the nervous system. Tinnitus, which is defined as the perception of sound without an external source, affects an estimated...
How neuroimaging has changed our understanding of tinnitus
Brain imaging advances are revealing tinnitus-related neural networks, shedding light on its pathophysiology, heterogeneity and potential therapeutic targets. Tinnitus is a highly common but poorly understood disorder [1]. Its subjective nature and the fact that its treatment may span multiple...
The missing link: how migraine neurophysiology amplifies tinnitus
This article discusses an emerging hypothesis linking bothersome tinnitus with migraine-related sensory processing dysfunction. When evaluating patients with tinnitus, a range of contrasting experiences are noted, from mild, non-bothersome symptoms to those associated with significant distress – broadly corresponding to...
Listening differently: my path into tinnitus and hyperacusis research
From lived experience to PhD research, Nic Wray explores how tinnitus and hyperacusis are understood in primary care, and why listening better could improve support. My working life has taken many turns, but becoming a researcher was never part of...
Somatosensory tinnitus: an interdisciplinary approach
Somatosensory tinnitus occurs when a head, neck or jaw problem influences what the tinnitus sounds like. Audiologists and physical therapists work together to address this tinnitus subtype. Background Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the ears or head, in...
Does diet have a role in the prevention of tinnitus?
Tinnitus, diet and healthy ageing Despite the high prevalence of tinnitus, its exact aetiology remains unclear. Research has explored the role of various biological pathways in the development of tinnitus including age-related changes in the auditory system, impaired vascular function,...
Genetic foundations of Ménière’s disease: changing the game
Sydney researchers reveal genetic roots of Ménière’s disease. Familial patterns and gene discoveries highlight autosomal inheritance in rare cases, transforming molecular insights. Ménière’s disease (MD) is a chronic disorder of the inner ear defined by clinical criteria of episodic vertigo...
Lenire as a clinical tool for treatment of tinnitus
Lenire offers a promising but varied solution for tinnitus relief. Peter Byrom shares insights on its effectiveness, challenges and patient outcomes. I have been involved in tinnitus support for at least 20 years, including a stint on the then British...
Rethinking tinnitus ‘care’: the role of digital solutions
Experiencing tinnitus can be very distressing and accessible care is limited. Digital therapeutics is one way of addressing these concerns, as described by Dr Bardy. Tinnitus presents a significant clinical challenge for various healthcare professionals, including general practitioners (GPs), ENTs...
Optimising hearing aid solutions for tinnitus sufferers: essential factors to consider
A tailored approach combining counselling, sensory management and perceptual training can improve the effectiveness of hearing aids in managing tinnitus for individual patients. Hearing aids are useful tinnitus therapy tools, according to tinnitus management guidelines. However, there are few published...
Mindfulness and tinnitus: a path to peace in the present
How does training the mind to be present in the here and now help patients with troublesome tinnitus? James Jackson discusses mindfulness and its place in tinnitus management. Although definitions can be more complex, tinnitus is the perception of sound...
Tinnitus treatment device from concept to commercialisation
Innovation in the field of healthcare is fraught with nearly insurmountable challenges. Bringing a novel product to the market requires a new (patentable) idea that can be reduced to practice, manufactured at scale, and can pass all regulatory barriers. In...
