Masking techniques

Persistent aura sufferers with chronic tinnitus can benefit from a masking approach, the technique of producing external "white noise" sounds that will mask the tinnitus and make it less distracting (Schechter and Henry, 2002).

Tinnitus masking

"I'm off to bed. Gotta turn the fan on (tinnitus) and mute the TV (VS) first, though. My nightly ritual!

Goodnight!"

(IanKC [subject #92], Yuku forum Visual snow or static - General discussion - anyone up for a chat? Or planned chats?, October 3, 2007)

"That's interesting, because I do basically the same thing."

(fulp [subject #419], Yuku forum Visual snow or static - General discussion - anyone up for a chat? Or planned chats?, October 3, 2007)

"Yep. I have an air purifier that I always have turned on. I originally got it for my allergies, but it works so well for drowning out the tinnitus, I'm pretty happy with the dual purpose. It makes excellent white noise."

(SopuliSusie [subject #405], Yuku forum Visual snow or static - General discussion - Tinnitus, October 3, 2007)

"I always keep the ceiling fan running for the white noise... even in the winter."

(ChelleWMCM [subject #272], Yuku forum Visual snow or static - General discussion - Tinnitus, October 3, 2007)

"I feel silly sometimes. Even if it's 40 degrees (cold) outside, I still turn the fan on. I just face it away from me."

(IanKC [subject #92], Yuku forum Visual snow or static - General discussion - Tinnitus, October 3, 2007)

References

Schechter MA, Henry JA. Assessment and treatment of tinnitus patients using a "masking approach". J Am Acad Audiol 2002; 13: 545-558.