Something that often happens to the hearing part of the inner ear is called tinnitus, which is a ringing of the ears. Most often it is a sign of some sort of damage to the inner ear's hearing sensors. Ringing in the ears should always be evaluated because it can be a sign of ear problems which could need medical attention. In many cases tinnitus is of little bother and a person will choose to live with it. But, about 2 million Americans cannot choose this "learn to live with it" option, and need help from an audiologist. Fortunately, there are new treatments for tinnitus that can reduce both the awareness and annoyance of it. Neuromonics, the latest FDA-cleared treatment, is the most effective treatment for tinnitus that has ever been developed. Dr. Tami Ike was the first audiologist in North Carolina to offer this cutting-edge treatment, and her commitment to tinnitus care continues today. Our services include:
A: An estimated 50 million Americans suffer from tinnitus, or ringing in the ears. Tinnitus is often accompanied by hearing loss. Sufferers often complain of ringing, whistling, buzzing or humming in their ears when there is no external sound present. The sound may be constant, but can also be intermittent. Tinnitus may begin suddenly, occur gradually being sensed in one ear, both ears, or in the head.
A: In many cases the cause of tinnitus cannot be identified. Ringing in the ears is commonly brought on by damage to the ears through exposure to loud noise. Other causes include ear or sinus infections, Meniere's disease, some medications, head and neck trauma, circulatory problems, misalignment of the jaw, or in rare cases a tumor. Sometimes, tinnitus goes away on its own. However, tinnitus can affect your life and may cause problems such as sleep disturbance, fatigue, stress, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, depression, and irritability.
A: Yes! Until recently, treatment options only addressed the symptoms but not the underlying causes of tinnitus. We provide Neuromonics Tinnitus Treatment that addresses the neurological, audiological and psychological basis of tinnitus.
A: This patented treatment method is FDA-cleared, non-invasive and involves no medications. It is customized for each patient to address the root causes of tinnitus disturbance. A small, lightweight OasisT device with headphones delivers precisely designed music embedded with a pleasant acoustic neural stimulus. The OasisT device is worn for at least two hours per day during daily activities like reading, preparing meals or at the office. The total treatment process occurs in stages over six months and is administered by a trained audiologist.
A: Before any treatment begins, you will meet with our certified audiologist. She will evaluate your tinnitus and hearing to assess your specific audiological profile. She will discuss treatment options and your potential for success.
