Tinnitus & Sound Sensitivity
Ringing in the ears, also known as tinnitus, is more than an occasional nuisance after a loud concert. For millions of people it is a daily struggle that affects concentration, sleep, and quality of life. Some experience constant ringing or buzzing in both ears, while others notice it comes and goes or affects only one ear.
At California Hearing Center we know how frustrating tinnitus can be, and how lack of sleep and heightened stress can make symptoms worse. The encouraging news is that you do not have to suffer in silence. Our Doctors of Audiology bring more than 20 years of experience helping patients manage tinnitus using advanced testing, evidence-based therapies, and modern sound technologies.
Several of our audiologists are Certificate Holders in Tinnitus Management, a credential recognized by the American Board of Audiology. To understand the condition itself first, see what tinnitus is.
At a glance
- Our Doctors of Audiology bring 20-plus years of tinnitus experience, and several hold the American Board of Audiology tinnitus-management certificate.
- There is no single cure, but sound therapy, TRT, hearing aids, and lifestyle strategies bring many patients lasting relief.
- Select candidates can access Lenire, an FDA-cleared bimodal neuromodulation device, through a structured eligibility process.
What tinnitus is
Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the ears or head without an external source. It is most commonly described as ringing, buzzing, hissing, or roaring, and the loudness and pitch vary from person to person and may change with your environment. Because it can stem from many causes, a comprehensive evaluation by a Doctor of Audiology is an essential first step toward relief.
Common causes and triggers
Tinnitus has many possible triggers, including hearing loss from loud noise exposure, age-related hearing decline, nervous-system or circulatory issues, TMJ (jaw joint) or cervical spine problems, and head trauma or concussion. Identifying the underlying cause helps us focus your care, which is why every plan begins with a careful history and hearing evaluation.
Is there a cure?
Currently there is no single cure for tinnitus, but there are proven, effective ways to manage and reduce symptoms. Many patients find lasting relief through sound therapy and Tinnitus Retraining Therapy, hearing aids with tinnitus features, stress and sleep management, and lifestyle adjustments tailored to their health. With the right combination, you can minimize the impact of tinnitus and regain control over your daily life.
Our evidence-based approach
We build individualized plans rather than one-size-fits-all advice. Depending on your needs, that may include sound therapy, directive counseling, TRT, hearing aids programmed for tinnitus, and coaching on sleep, stress, and daily habits. Every plan starts with comprehensive hearing testing and a tinnitus assessment so we understand what is driving your symptoms and how much they affect your life.
Lenire and advanced options
For select patients we also offer access to Lenire, an FDA-cleared bimodal neuromodulation device that pairs sound with gentle tongue stimulation. Because Lenire is candidacy-gated, eligibility is determined through a structured process. We periodically host a Lenire field clinic with Dr. Emily McMahan, one of the first Lenire providers in the U.S. and a widely recognized tinnitus expert. Getting started typically requires a hearing test completed within the past six months, a telehealth eligibility consultation reviewing your medical and audiological history, and, if you qualify, an in-person fitting at our California clinic.
What to expect from care
Tinnitus care is a process, not a single visit. After your evaluation we review your results, explain the likely type of tinnitus, and recommend a plan matched to your goals and budget. Follow-up visits let us fine-tune sound therapy and hearing aid settings, track progress, and coordinate with other providers such as ENT, TMJ specialists, or mental-health professionals when appropriate. Many patients gradually reach habituation, where the brain learns to tune the sound out.
Frequently asked questions
A few questions worth asking
Can tinnitus be cured?
There is currently no single cure, but proven treatments can substantially reduce how much tinnitus affects you. Many patients reach a point where the sound fades into the background and no longer rules their day.
How do I get started?
The first step is a comprehensive tinnitus and hearing evaluation so we can identify likely causes and match you with the right tools. You can schedule at our San Mateo or San Carlos offices by calling 650-342-9449.
Am I a candidate for Lenire?
Lenire is candidacy-gated. Eligibility is determined through a structured process that includes a recent hearing test and a telehealth consultation reviewing your medical and audiological history. Not everyone qualifies, and many patients do well with sound therapy, TRT, and hearing aids instead.
Do stress and sleep really affect tinnitus?
Yes. Poor sleep and heightened stress can make tinnitus feel worse, which is why stress and sleep management are built into our treatment plans rather than treated as afterthoughts.