Tinnitus Masking-a Significant Contribution to Tinnitus Management

Abstract

Acoustical suppression of tinnitus (tinnitus ‘masking’) has been successful in helping to control tinnitus in 60% of patients with tinnitus as their main symptom. Experience in masking techniques and in particular counselling of tinnitus patients, and the availability of a wider range of instruments has been an important factor in achieving this. A previous study of the first 148 maskers supplied between 1977 and 1979 resulted in a 60% failure rate. Only 12% had continuous relief. This group received minimal instruction and no counselling (Hazell et al., in press). A further 142 instruments have been fitted since then, with counselling and follow up in the hospital department where the patient was first seen. An acceptance rate of 81% has been achieved for this group. Although the degree of relief from tinnitus by masking varied between patients and in the same patients from time to time, these patients did not require any further treatment for their tinnitus. Our work suggests that the successful fitting of tinnitus maskers requires the development of special techniques, especially in the counselling of patients, and in the correct fitting of the appropriate instrument. Our methods of patient management are discussed.