Abstract
Objective: Learn whether customized sound therapy can be delivered via the Web. Understand the efficacy of customized Internet-based therapy in reducing tinnitus loudness.
Method: Thirty-two subjects were enrolled. The patients matched their tinnitus frequency using a Web-based protocol. A customized harmonic sound therapy file was downloaded by the patient onto an MP3 player. The subjects listened to the sound file for 1 hour using open-ear headphones at a level equal to tinnitus loudness (mixing-point).
Results: The age ranged between 32 and 67 years. Prior to harmonic sound therapy, tinnitus loudness mean was 6 (range, 0-10) which decreased to 3.3 (range, 0-6) after 1 hour of sound therapy. Some reduction in loudness was seen in 88%, while 72% experienced a reduction of 25% or more. Tinnitus annoyance decreased from an average of 6.1 (range, 1-10) to 3.1 (range, 0-8). Median duration of residual inhibition was 60 minutes, with an average of 86 minutes (range, 0-720). The harmonic masking protocol and some characteristics associated with a significant reduction of the tinnitus will be discussed.
Conclusion: Customized sound therapy can be delivered via the internet. Harmonic sound therapy is effective in reducing the loudness and annoyance of tinnitus in a diverse group of subjects. Advantages and limitations of this method of tinnitus therapy will be discussed.
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