A Prescriptive Sound Amplification Method for Tinnitus Relief, Using Hearing Aids

Abstract

Aim and objectives: To improve the quality of life of the tinnitus patients, using an innovative sound amplification algorithm, delivered via hearing aids. Material and methods: Each subject served as his own control. Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI) questionnaire was used for tracking the progress of the therapy. Scores were calculated at the first presentation, 2 weeks, and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after that. There were 15 adult patients with subjective tinnitus of non-tumoral etiology, 12 with tinnitus and hearing loss and 3 with tinnitus and normal hearing. Results: After 12 months of therapy, a statistically significant decrease in TFI score was observed. The improvement was gradual for most of the patients. Conclusion: The designed prescriptive amplification method is an efficient way of helping patients with disabling tinnitus, regardless of the fact that hearing loss is present or the hearing thresholds are normal.