New Sound Therapy Offers Hope for Millions Suffering from Tinnitus
Amsterdam, netherlands - A novel sound therapy is showing promising results in the treatment of tinnitus, a condition affecting approximately two million people in the Netherlands. Developed by psychologist Rilana Cima,the therapy aims to reduce the perceived severity of ringing in the ears for those whose lives are considerably impacted by the condition. While a complete cure remains elusive, early data suggests the treatment offers substantial relief to a large majority of patients.
Tinnitus, often stemming from noise exposure, age-related hearing loss, or medication side effects, can range from a mild annoyance to a debilitating condition. Many sufferers attempt to ignore or suppress the noise, a strategy Cima explains is counterproductive.”Ironically, the problem strengthens: the harder you try to suppress it, the worse it stays,” she told AD.
The core of Cima’s treatment involves a technique utilizing contrasting sound environments. Patients first engage in activities with meaningful auditory stimulation, followed by periods of complete silence. This process temporarily intensifies the tinnitus, ultimately allowing it to recede into the background. According to Cima, approximately 80 percent of patients experience a noticeable improvement.
ENT doctor Dennis Cox emphasized the individualized nature of tinnitus treatment. Speaking on the 538 morning show,he noted,”The tricky thing is that treating ringing in the ears is really difficult because it is different for everyone. It is vrey good if such a treatment works. But there are also enough people who take treatment and come home from a cold fair.” He acknowledged the potential of Cima’s therapy while cautioning against expecting immediate solutions for all.
Preventative measures remain crucial. Cox advises those concerned about developing tinnitus to acclimate to consistent, non-threatening sounds. “If you are afraid of ringing in the ears, you have to sit in a room were you only hear a suis,” he said. “Then your brain learns to recognize that it is a sound that you don’t have to see as a danger.” He also stressed the importance of ear protection, recommending the use of quality earplugs in loud environments like gyms and concerts.
