Average read time: mins.
How white noise can help tinnitus
*Before we go into this article, we first will declare that the information gathered from this article has been researched into from different sources on the internet. We do not declare this information to be accurate in your circumstance and advise you receive professional advice if you feel that you have tinnitus. We also do not suggest that white noise is a solution to help tinnitus, but recommend it as a potential method that could help. Though it won't work for everyone, for some it may.
.jpg)
What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is a common condition characterized by a persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears. It affects millions of people worldwide and can be a source of distress, anxiety, and sleep disturbance. Although there is no known cure for tinnitus, there are several ways to manage its symptoms. One of the most effective methods is the use of white noise and calming sounds.
What is White Noise?
White noise is a type of sound that contains all frequencies in the audible range with equal intensity. It is often compared to the sound of static on a television or radio. White noise can be produced by various devices such as sound machines, fans, and air conditioners. Calming sounds, on the other hand, are nature-inspired sounds such as ocean waves, rain, and birdsong.
How does white noise help tinnitus?
White noise can help tinnitus by masking or covering up the ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. When white noise is played, it fills the silence in the background and reduces the contrast between the tinnitus and the surrounding environment. This makes the tinnitus less noticeable and less bothersome, which can help reduce the distress and anxiety associated with the condition.
Moreover, white noise can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Many people with tinnitus experience sleep disturbance due to the constant ringing or buzzing sound in their ears. White noise can provide a soothing background sound that can help mask the tinnitus and promote a more restful sleep.
How do calming sounds help tinnitus?
Calming sounds can also help tinnitus by promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety. Stress and anxiety can worsen tinnitus symptoms, as they can make the ringing or buzzing sound more noticeable and bothersome. Calming sounds such as ocean waves, rain, and birdsong can have a soothing effect on the mind and body, reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm.
Moreover, calming sounds can also help distract the brain from the tinnitus sound. When a person listens to calming sounds, their attention is directed to the pleasant sound, rather than the tinnitus sound. This can help reduce the salience of the tinnitus sound and make it less noticeable.
How to use white noise and calming sounds for tinnitus
White noise and calming sounds can be used in several ways to manage tinnitus symptoms. Here are some tips on how to use them effectively:
- Use a sound machine: A sound machine is a device that produces white noise and calming sounds. It is designed to provide a soothing background sound that can help mask tinnitus and promote relaxation. Sound machines are available in different types and styles, and can be purchased online or in stores.
- Use a smartphone app: There are several smartphone apps that offer white noise and calming sounds. These apps can be downloaded for free or purchased for a small fee. They can be used to create a personalized sound environment that can help manage tinnitus symptoms.
- Listen to calming music: Calming music can also have a soothing effect on the mind and body. Listening to soft, slow-paced music can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Classical music, for example, has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system.
- Experiment with different sounds: Different people may find different types of sounds helpful for managing their tinnitus symptoms. Some people may prefer white noise, while others may find calming sounds more effective. It is important to experiment with different sounds and find the ones that work best for you.
In conclusion, white noise and calming sounds can be effective in managing tinnitus symptoms. They can help mask the tinnitus sound, promote relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve sleep quality. By using these sounds in combination with other tinnitus management strategies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction, people with tinnitus can learn to
You can give this Zen a try or customise your own Zen. Or if you want a physical device we recommend the "Magicteam Sleep Sound White Noise Machine" that you can buy from Amazon.