Tinnitus Treatments 2/3: Other Approaches

In this three-part series, I describe the main treatments for constant (subjective) tinnitus, covering both conventional and alternative medicine approaches. As with the first post, most of these have had relative success—typically temporary and with results that vary widely.

 

Beyond Sound Therapies

There are additional treatment options within traditional medicine worth considering:

 

1. Low-Level Laser Therapy

This involves using soft lasers to stimulate functional circuits and regulatory systems, aiming to heal microstructures in the ear and strengthen cellular energy. Commercial devices include TINNImed, MedicLaser, and TinniTool ProfiLaser—each used for low-intensity laser therapy. A 2023 study found that these treatments are more effective for tinnitus than many current therapies (read more here).

2. Surgery

Typically used as a last resort in severe tinnitus cases:

• Cochlear implants are sometimes recommended for those with both tinnitus and hearing loss. By restoring an electrical signal to the auditory nerve, they may help mask tinnitus while rewiring the brain’s circuits.
• Auditory nerve sectioning is another option, though it doesn't always eliminate tinnitus.
• Tumor or vascular malformation removal near the ear may also be required in certain conditions.

3. Biofeedback (Neurofeedback)

Biofeedback covers a wide range of methods aimed at controlling physiological functions. Neurofeedback focuses on monitoring and training brainwave activity so patients can learn to modify certain neural processes.

4. Antinitus Patch

Developed by Akloma BioScience, this is a daily patch placed behind the ear for three weeks.

5. Allergy Treatment

If tinnitus is linked to allergies, addressing them directly can help reduce symptoms.

6. Thermotherapy

Uses heat—via infrared radiation or paraffin—to relieve symptoms.

 

Psychology, Neurology & Psychiatry

When the limbic system (our emotional center) is involved, tinnitus can become a serious issue. Here are common professional interventions:

• Stress, depression, and anxiety management, especially when these are underlying causes of tinnitus.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps correct unhelpful behaviors and irrational beliefs about tinnitus.
• Third-generation CBT (also called contextual or "third-wave" therapies) places more focus on behavioral change processes.
• Interoceptive exposure is a technique where patients intentionally focus on tinnitus sounds to change their emotional reaction and reduce negativity—promoting acceptance and habituation.
• Mindfulness-based cognitive approaches. There is scientific evidence that mindfulness helps ease tinnitus symptoms.*

 

CBT is often the most beneficial treatment for many patients, helping them cope and built acceptance.

 

• Mindfulness (also called full-consciousness or mental wellness) stems from Buddhist meditation practices.
• Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) includes tools like "reframing," helping patients reinterpret their experiences.
• Neurologic or psychiatric treatment is used when a specific underlying condition is identified.

 

* See here a video by Dr. Fatima Husain from the University of Illinois.

 

Pharmaceuticals

Tinnitus medications are varied, and effectiveness depends greatly on the individual.

They generally fall into categories like: antiarrhythmics, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, antiglutamatergics, dopaminergics, anti-inflammatories, anesthetics, antihistamines, benzodiazepines, diuretics, corticosteroids, anticoagulants, anticholinergics, antibiotics, vasodilators, neuroprotectors, anxiolytics, antipsychotics, anti-vertigo agents, herbal products, vitamins, and mineral supplements.

Some common options:

• Melatonin: a lab-synthesized hormone for sleep and depression regulation.
• Vincamine: a plant-derived drug that promotes cerebral circulation and increases blood pressure.
• Coenzyme Q10: supports auditory blood flow and has antioxidant benefits.
• Rheologically active agents: sometimes useful after acoustic trauma.
• Symptom-based medications: prescribed when tinnitus is a side effect of another neurological or psychiatric illness.

Treating emotional and psychological side effects is often a key reason for prescribing such drugs.

Important note: Medication use should be carefully evaluated and overseen by a specialist, as some drugs may worsen tinnitus or cause unwanted side effects.

 

General Support (Counseling)

A specialist-led counseling process can help patients manage stress, depression, and loss of focus caused by tinnitus. This support is less about curing tinnitus and more about helping the patient live with it successfully. CBT is frequently part of these sessions, aimed at correcting unhelpful behaviors and beliefs. Regardless of the tinnitus cause, it’s essential for patients to understand how and why it exists.

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