New Trial Offers Hope for Silencing Recent-onset Tinnitus
A clinical trial at Newcastle University is investigating a novel, non-invasive therapy to treat tinnitus, specifically targeting individuals experiencing symptoms for less than two months. The research focuses on transcranial Direct current Stimulation (tDCS) combined with sound therapy, aiming to halt the condition before it becomes chronic.
The trial, which began in July, currently includes six volunteers and anticipates enrolling a total of 100 participants over the next two years. All enrolled individuals have experienced the onset of tinnitus within the past two months. Participants are randomly assigned to receive either ten 40-minute sessions of tDCS followed by sound therapy, or a placebo treatment delivering only a faint current.
tDCS involves applying a low-level electrical current to the scalp - approximately two milliamps,comparable to the sensation of touching a battery to the tongue,though researchers emphasize the current type differs from a standard battery. Early results from the first five participants to complete the treatment are encouraging, with four reporting “significant” improvements in their tinnitus, noting it was both quieter and less disruptive.
Researchers, led by Dr. William Sedley, caution that these initial improvements could be due to spontaneous remission, a phenomenon less common in clinical trials. However, they remain optimistic. “These results are really promising,” Dr. Sedley stated, emphasizing the need for better solutions than simply learning to live with the condition.
The Newcastle trial represents a less invasive approach than other explored methods, such as Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). DBS, a surgical procedure involving implanted electrodes, has shown promise in some patients with tinnitus – particularly those with electrodes placed in the caudate nucleus – but carries risks of bleeding and infection and remains experimental, reserved for severe cases.
Alongside the trial, lifestyle adjustments can offer some relief. A 2024 study indicated that mindfulness practice, over two months, reduced symptoms in a third of patients.Regular exercise, exceeding two-and-a-half hours per week, also demonstrated positive effects. Conversely, consumption of salt, alcohol, caffeine, and foods high in salicylates (like coffee, avocados, and blueberries) may exacerbate tinnitus symptoms.
The Newcastle team is actively recruiting volunteers and believes their research could represent a significant advancement in tinnitus treatment. Dr. Abishek Umashankar expressed hope that the work will lead to a new reality, understanding the mechanisms behind persistent tinnitus and developing effective interventions to stop it in its tracks.
Individuals interested in learning more or participating in the trial can visit newcastletinnitus.org/acute-tinnitus-research.
