Your Guide to Tinnitus in Glendora and West Covina
by Dr. Kevin Ivory
Comprehensive tinnitus guide from university-instructor audiologist Dr. Ivory, covering causes, treatments, and evidence-based management approaches in Glendora and West Covina.
Tinnitus affects millions of Americans, creating phantom sounds that can range from subtle ringing to debilitating noise. As both a practicing audiologist and university instructor, Dr. Kevin Ivory brings a unique academic perspective to tinnitus treatment in Glendora and the surrounding communities, including West Covina. Since Fall Quarter 2015, Dr. Ivory has continuously taught in the Communication Disorders departments at California State University, Los Angeles and California State University, Northridge, where he instructs courses in "Hearing Science" and "Aural Rehabilitation." This dual role allows him to bring current clinical best practice standards and research findings directly to our practice, where patients receive personalized evidence-based care.
Tinnitus, commonly known as "ringing of the ears," creates sounds where no external stimulus exists. The American Tinnitus Association estimates that over 50 million Americans experience tinnitus, with approximately 20 million suffering from chronic cases and 2 million experiencing debilitating symptoms. This condition can manifest as ringing, buzzing, hissing, clicking, or roaring sounds that only the individual can hear.
The phantom sounds of tinnitus occur when the auditory system generates neural activity without corresponding sound waves reaching the ear. This can happen at various levels of the auditory pathway, from the inner ear to the auditory cortex in the brain.
Research shows that approximately 80% of tinnitus cases occur alongside hearing loss. This strong correlation stems from the relationship between hearing and inner ear hair cells. When presbycusis (age-related hearing loss) or noise-induced hearing loss damages these delicate hair cells, they may send phantom signals to the brain, which registers them as sound.
Inner ear hair cells translate sound vibrations into neural signals that our brains recognize as sound. When these cells degenerate, the disrupted communication between the ear and brain can result in the perception of tinnitus. This is why many individuals with hearing loss also experience ear ringing or other phantom sounds.
Understanding the different types of tinnitus helps in developing appropriate treatment strategies. Tinnitus rarely exists as an isolated condition but often points to underlying health issues.
Objective tinnitus, comprising less than 1% of cases, creates sounds that others can actually hear. This type often stems from circulatory or muscular issues within the body. Pulsatile tinnitus, the most common form of objective tinnitus, may synchronize with heartbeat rhythm or result from muscle spasms affecting the middle or inner ear.
Conditions such as high blood pressure, vascular abnormalities, or problems with the small muscles of the middle ear can cause objective tinnitus. In many cases, treating the underlying medical condition provides relief from the tinnitus symptoms.
Subjective tinnitus accounts for 99% of reported cases, with only the affected individual hearing the phantom sounds. The sounds can vary dramatically between individuals, reflecting the personal nature of how our nervous systems process auditory information.
Common causes of subjective tinnitus include:
Tinnitus extends beyond simple annoyance, potentially affecting multiple aspects of health and wellbeing. The condition has been linked to increased stress, anxiety, and depression levels. Many individuals report memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and persistent fatigue related to their tinnitus.
The social and emotional impact can be significant, interfering with work performance, social interactions, and family relationships. Sleep disruption is common, as tinnitus often becomes more noticeable in quiet environments, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night.
Dr. Ivory's academic background in aural rehabilitation provides valuable insight into addressing these broader impacts of tinnitus, helping patients develop comprehensive strategies for managing both the auditory symptoms and their effects on daily functioning.
While no cure for tinnitus currently exists, effective treatment options can provide significant relief. The key lies in addressing both the underlying hearing loss and the tinnitus symptoms themselves.
Many modern hearing aids incorporate tinnitus therapy features. These devices address the dual challenge of hearing loss and tinnitus through multiple mechanisms:
Sound Masking: Built-in sound generators produce tones or nature sounds that mask the frustrating sounds of tinnitus. This approach helps reduce the prominence of phantom sounds by providing alternative auditory input.
Amplification Benefits: By improving access to environmental sounds through amplification, hearing aids can reduce the contrast between tinnitus and ambient noise, making the phantom sounds less noticeable.
Combination Therapy: Advanced hearing aids combine amplification with dedicated tinnitus features, providing comprehensive treatment for individuals with both hearing loss and tinnitus.
We work with leading hearing aid manufacturers including Oticon, ReSound, Starkey, Signia, Phonak, and Widex, ensuring access to the latest tinnitus management technologies. Our selection process focuses on matching each patient's specific needs with the most appropriate device features.
At our practice, we use Real Ear Measurements (REM) for all hearing aid fittings, a practice followed by fewer than 30% of hearing care providers. This scientific verification ensures that hearing aids provide the precise level of amplification needed across all frequencies. For tinnitus patients, proper hearing aid fitting through REM can optimize both hearing improvement and tinnitus management effectiveness.
Our approach to tinnitus begins with a thorough evaluation to identify contributing factors and develop personalized treatment plans. The assessment includes:
Detailed Case History: We explore the onset, characteristics, and impact of tinnitus symptoms, along with medical history and potential contributing factors.
Comprehensive Hearing Evaluation: Pure tone and speech recognition testing helps identify any hearing loss that may be contributing to tinnitus symptoms.
Tinnitus Matching: When appropriate, we work to characterize the pitch, loudness, and other qualities of the tinnitus to inform treatment decisions.
Medical Referral Coordination: When necessary, we coordinate with physicians to address any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to tinnitus.
Effective tinnitus treatment often requires a multifaceted approach. In addition to hearing aid technology, we may recommend:
Sound Therapy: Environmental sound enrichment can help reduce tinnitus prominence throughout the day and during sleep.
Counseling and Education: Understanding tinnitus mechanisms and management strategies empowers patients to take an active role in their treatment.
Lifestyle Modifications: Stress management, sleep hygiene, and avoiding known triggers can complement other treatment approaches.
Follow-up Care: Regular monitoring allows for treatment adjustments and ensures optimal long-term outcomes.
Dr. Ivory's ongoing involvement in university education keeps our practice current with the latest tinnitus research and treatment developments. His academic work includes staying informed about emerging connections between hearing loss and cognitive health, including early-onset dementia and Alzheimer's Disease. This research background enriches our clinical approach and ensures patients benefit from evidence-based treatment protocols.
The intersection of hearing health and cognitive function represents an active area of research, with studies suggesting that treating hearing loss may help preserve cognitive abilities and potentially reduce dementia risk. For tinnitus patients, this research underscores the importance of comprehensive hearing care that addresses both immediate symptoms and long-term health outcomes.
Our location in Glendora provides convenient access to tinnitus treatment for residents throughout the San Gabriel Valley, including the substantial population in West Covina. With over 107,400 residents in West Covina and 16.8% of the population over age 64, there is significant need for specialized tinnitus care in our community.
We understand that tinnitus affects people differently, and our personalized approach reflects this reality. Whether you're experiencing recent onset tinnitus or have been dealing with chronic symptoms, we work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and lifestyle.
Living with tinnitus doesn't have to mean accepting constant discomfort or disruption to your daily life. Our combination of clinical expertise, academic knowledge, and advanced technology provides a comprehensive foundation for effective tinnitus management.
If you're experiencing tinnitus symptoms, the first step toward relief is a comprehensive evaluation. We encourage residents of Glendora, West Covina, and surrounding communities to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ivory. During your appointment, we'll assess your hearing, evaluate your tinnitus, and discuss treatment options tailored to your specific situation. Contact us at (626) 963-7200 to begin your journey toward better hearing and tinnitus relief.
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