Curing Tinnitus

It's about your brain and your tongue

Millions of people suffer from it. Some believe that Beethoven had it.

Tinnitus is the medical condition where one’s life is constantly filled with the soundtrack of a shrill, insistent whin. Imagine hearing a never-ending mosquito buzz, even when there's nothing to hear.

Tinnitus isn't a new affliction. While its precise history remains unclear, references in literature and anecdotes suggest it has plagued humanity for centuries. The causes of tinnitus are varied. Hearing loss, noise exposure, and even certain medications can all trigger the condition. Those who suffer from it experience stress, debilitation, and may even develop anxiety and insomnia.

Many have struggled to find relief. Hearing aids, dietary changes, meditation—some offer help, but there's no one-size-fits-all solution.

But there is hope!

Yes, there's good news on the horizon! The Lenire, a unique FDA-approved device, offers a new approach. Lenire utilizes electrical tongue stimulation—yes, the tongue!

Here's how it works: Lenire essentially trains the brain to focus on other stimuli besides the phantom ringing of tinnitus. Imagine your brain as a spotlight constantly scanning for sensory input. A bird flitting by catches your eye, a helicopter overhead grabs your attention. The brain naturally shifts its focus. In tinnitus, the spotlight gets stuck on the ringing when there's no external source.

With the Lenire mild electrical stimulation of the tongue is paired with ambient sounds to gently nudge the brain away from the tinnitus drone. With repeated use, the brain learns to habituate, essentially dimming the spotlight on the ringing, making it less intrusive and bothersome.

The Device In Use, Photo Courtesy of the Lenire Website

According to a Nature article, after 12 weeks on the machine 84% of people saw improvement in their condition on the criteria of sleep, sense of control and overall well-being.

Tinnitus is a condition that dwells somewhere between the physical (what creates the sound) and the psychological (the focusing on it), it’s a constant reminder of how ludicrously complex the interplay between the brain and our senses are. But this new device reminds us that we can change things, we can remove the unrelenting buzz and instead find solace and peace.

How is that not a good thing?