Commonly described as “ringing in the ears,” tinnitus can manifest as various sounds including ringing, buzzing, hissing, whistling, humming, roaring, clicking, or even musical tones. These sounds may be constant or intermittent, affecting one or both ears.
Tinnitus is not a disease itself but rather a symptom of an underlying condition, most commonly related to hearing loss, ear injury, or circulatory system problems. While tinnitus cannot always be “cured,” effective management strategies can significantly reduce its impact on daily life.
At Coastal Audiology we provide comprehensive tinnitus assessments and evidence-based therapy at our Nerang clinic on the Gold Coast. Our specialist audiologists use advanced diagnostic techniques and proven treatment methods to help you manage tinnitus and improve your quality of life.
How is Tinnitus Assessed?
Comprehensive tinnitus assessment is essential for developing an effective treatment plan. At Coastal Audiology, our specialist audiologists conduct thorough evaluations to understand your tinnitus and its impact on your life.
A comprehensive tinnitus assessment takes 90 minutes. Testing is conducted in a quiet, comfortable environment. All tests are non-invasive and painless.
Case History & Hearing Assessment
Your audiologist will conduct an in-depth interview about your tinnitus, including:
- When and how your tinnitus started
- Description of the sounds you hear (pitch, loudness, quality)
Which ear(s) are affected - Whether it’s constant or intermittent
- Factors that worsen or improve your tinnitus
- Impact on sleep, concentration, and quality of life
- Medical history, medications, and noise exposure
- Stress levels and emotional wellbeing
Specialised Tinnitus Testing
Specialised tests to characterise your tinnitus:
- Tinnitus pitch matching: Identifying the frequency that most closely matches your tinnitus sound
- Tinnitus loudness matching: Determining the perceived volume of your tinnitus
- Minimum masking level: Finding the softest sound that can cover your tinnitus
- Residual inhibition testing: Assessing temporary tinnitus suppression after sound exposure
Results & Discussion
A comprehensive discussion regarding the results of your tinnitus assessment and an explanation of the auditory and neurological pathways relevant to understanding tinnitus.
Treatment Plan
Your tinnitus is unique — and so is your treatment. We look at the full picture: the neurological, psychological, and audiological factors driving your condition, then build a personalised, non-invasive plan around you. Our approach works by gradually retraining the connections between your auditory, emotional, and nervous systems — creating real, lasting change.
Tinnitus Treatment and Management Options
Tinnitus therapy helps your brain adjust to the sound of tinnitus, reducing its intensity and making it easier to manage. With the guidance of an experienced audiologist, a personalised treatment plan can be developed to help you manage tinnitus. While there is currently no single “cure” for most types of tinnitus, numerous evidence-based treatments and management strategies can significantly reduce tinnitus distress and improve quality of life.
Assisted Listening Devices
- Sound Generators
- Sound Enrichment
- Hearing Devices
Tinnitus Therapy
- Target Therapy programs such as tinnitus retreating therapy (TRT) and Neuromonics
- Audiology led therapy/training
- Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
Compensatory Strategies
Coastal Audiology provides tailored strategies for school and home environments that are specific to the individual’s needs.
The most effective approach is often a combination of therapies tailored to your specific needs.