Progressive Tinnitus: Assessment and Management

Hearing disorders are a type of disorder wherein the affected person is not able to perceive or process auditory information. Hearing disorders may lead to hearing loss which can be partial or complete, and may occur in one or both ears. There are various hearing disorders that include tinnitus, endaural phenomena, hyperacusis, presbycusis, etc. Tinnitus is a disorder characterized by sensitivity to sound when, in fact, there is no actual sound. This obstructs the normal functioning of the ear as the patient experiences sounds such as ringing, clicking, buzzing, or hissing. It often impedes concentration, leading to anxiety and depression. The management of tinnitus includes identification of the specific cause followed by the treatment. The primary treatments are classified into psychological, sound based interventions, and medications. These involve talk therapy, sound therapy, and hearing aids. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the best supported treatment for this disorder. This book contains some path-breaking studies on tinnitus. It strives to provide a fair idea about this medical condition and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances related to its assessment and management. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.