Dealing with tinnitus can be a source of frustration for many. Luckily, hearing aids can make a big difference to how much these symptoms interrupt your quality of life. Let’s look at why that is.
Dealing with tinnitus can be a source of frustration for many. Luckily, hearing aids can make a big difference to how much these symptoms interrupt your quality of life. Let’s look at why that is.
Research shows that many tinnitus sufferers also experience some degree of hearing loss. [2] When the auditory system isn't picking up external sounds properly, it sometimes tries to compensate by becoming more sensitive or "turning up the volume." This increased sensitivity can lead the brain to "fill in the blanks" by creating internal (or phantom) noises, including ringing, buzzing, or hissing. [3]
To put it simply, the brain is trying to fill in the gaps left by reduced hearing, and in doing so, creates noise that isn’t actually there.
Yes, hearing aids can provide relief from tinnitus in several ways:
According to the Hearing Health Foundation, “About 80 percent of hearing loss cases can be treated with hearing aids, but only one in four individuals who could benefit actually use them.” [4] We’d like to see more people use hearing aids and enjoy the improved quality of life they provide!
The best hearing aids for tinnitus are typically those equipped with tinnitus masking features or sound therapy options. All hearing aid manufacturers have hearing aids with tinnitus programming. While the brand doesn’t necessarily matter, you’ll want to look for hearing aids that include these features:
Ultimately, the best option is one that matches your hearing profile and provides the right level of masking or sound enhancement. An appointment with a hearing health care specialist can help you find the most effective hearing aid for your specific symptoms.
In most cases, hearing aids do not make tinnitus worse. In fact, it’s usually quite the opposite. However, there are a few exceptions to be aware of:
If your tinnitus worsens after using hearing aids, consult with a hearing care professional for a reassessment and fine-tuning of the device.
Insurance coverage for hearing aids can vary widely depending on your provider and specific plan. Some private insurance plans may offer partial coverage for hearing aids if they are deemed medically necessary, especially when tinnitus is accompanied by documented hearing loss. However, many plans, including Medicare, typically do not cover hearing aids or related services, even when used to treat tinnitus.
That said, certain states or employer-sponsored health plans may have more generous benefits. It's important to review your insurance policy carefully. Check your insurance benefits to understand what is covered and what documentation might be required.
The truth is, no two tinnitus experiences are the same. That’s why our hearing care professionals offer customized hearing solutions designed to improve hearing and provide relief for tinnitus. Through comprehensive evaluations, advanced hearing aid technology, and ongoing support, you can find relief from tinnitus.
If you're experiencing tinnitus, don't wait for it to worsen or go away. A professional hearing evaluation can determine if hearing loss is a factor and whether hearing aids might be an effective solution for your needs.
Request an appointment and take the first step toward better hearing and relief from tinnitus.
Use our online tool to check your benefits, and connect with a local provider.
*Based on 2024 internal pricing analysis. Your savings may vary.
**Care package details vary by plan. Exclusions and limitations may apply. Separate care packages may be available through your provider. These care packages are not included in your Amplifon benefit and may result in additional out-of-pocket cost. Contact Amplifon (888-713-7659) for details.
Sources
[1] Mayo Clinic. “Tinnitus.” Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tinnitus/symptoms-causes/syc-20350156
[2] National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. “Tinnitus.” Retrieved from https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus
[3] Tinnitus UK. “Tinnitus and Hearing Aids.” Retrieved from https://tinnitus.org.uk/understanding-tinnitus/living-with-tinnitus/tinnitus-and-hearing-aids/
[4] Hearing Health Foundation. “Hearing Loss & Tinnitus Statistics.” Retrieved from https://hearinghealthfoundation.org/hearing-loss-tinnitus-statistics
[5] American Tinnitus Association. “Hearing Aids / Masking Devices.” Retrieved from https://www.ata.org/about-tinnitus/therapy-and-treatment-options/hearing-aids-masking-devices/
[6] American Tinnitus Association. “Hearing Aids / Masking Devices.” Retrieved from https://www.ata.org/about-tinnitus/therapy-and-treatment-options/hearing-aids-masking-devices/
[7] Science Direct. “Hearing aids for the treatment of tinnitus.” Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0079612307660324?via%3Dihub
[8] American Tinnitus Association “Sound Therapy.” Retrieved from https://www.ata.org/about-tinnitus/sound-therapy/
