Recovery from acoustic trauma.

After Recovery from Acoustic or Drug-Induced Trauma, Do the Ears Somewhat Recover Also?

Meaning, even if tinnitus remains, do your ears become less sensitive again? Right now I'm a little over two months in, and though at times, I feel like things are better, my ears still don't feel quite the same. I'm not sure I'm describing it well.

On another forum that I visit, someone asked the above question and I replied with my thoughts that I have pasted below and might be of interest to someone.

Michael Leigh

I mostly deal with tinnitus that was caused by "noise trauma". In most instances the ears will make a full recovery and the tinnitus is likely to reduce over time as one habituates. With noise trauma hyperacusis is usually present but not always. Depending on how severe the tinnitus and "hyperacusis" if it present, will determine how long habituation will take.

Please understand this is not a quick fix and may take many months. Depending on how severe these conditions are and the way it affects a person's mental well-being. I believe it's best to be referred to Audiology and be under the care of a Hearing Therapist or Audiologist who's trained in the management of tinnitus, hyperacusis and the perception of them and also the appropriate treatment which come in various forms.

Again, it depends on how severe the tinnitus is and hyperacusis (if present). These conditions can improve naturally but often professional help is required due to the emotional impact they have on a person.

Michael

PS: When tinnitus is caused by noise trauma a person has to change their ways after habituation is reached and the ears recover, otherwise they risk the problem returning and it getting worse. Under these circumstances I believe headphones should never be used and when attending places of entertainment where music is likely to be loud, use noise reducing earplugs. However, just because one is wearing earplugs that doesn't mean they are completely safe. If external sound is loud enough, it can reach the inner ear by bone conduction.