How you feel today is not how you will feel in the future.
Tinnitus can’t always be cured — but it can almost always be managed. Both Dr. Tarvin and Dr. Cioli are specialty-trained clinicians dedicated to helping you find real, lasting relief.
The perception of sound when there is no external sound.
Tinnitus (“tin-uh-tis”) is most commonly described as ringing in the ear or head. People also describe it as buzzing, chirping, roaring, hissing, horns, or even music (musical tinnitus). It’s a very real sensation generated by the brain — and it affects every individual differently.
Tinnitus is fairly common, estimated to affect approximately 15% of the U.S. population. Some people are aware of it constantly; others only notice it at quiet moments such as bedtime.
Tinnitus can be temporary (after a loud night) or chronic (always present to some degree). It is a symptom of an underlying condition — hearing loss, ear canal blockage, ear trauma, a circulatory disorder, or something else.
Many patients with chronic tinnitus are told to “just learn to live with it.” That advice is not only outdated — it actively increases anxiety and hopelessness. We don’t do that here.
Lenire™ — FDA-approved bimodal neuromodulation for tinnitus.
Dr. Alexandra Tarvin was specifically chosen to introduce the Lenire system to South Carolina and the surrounding region. Both Dr. Tarvin and Dr. Cioli have completed advanced specialized training in the Lenire system, working alongside leading experts in the field.
In Lenire’s large-scale FDA clinical trial, 83% of patients recommended Lenire for the treatment of tinnitus — results consistent with real-world evidence from 204 patients.
Lenire facts (for quick reference)
- FDA De Novo: Lenire Tinnitus Treatment Device (DEN210033), decision date 03/06/2023.
- Clinical trial signal: 83% of participants recommended Lenire for tinnitus in a large-scale trial designed to meet FDA requirements.
- Real-world evidence: Trial results were consistent with real-world evidence from 204 patients.
Every tinnitus treatment plan is individualized.
About 80% of individuals with tinnitus also have hearing loss — research shows treating the hearing loss is the first strategy. For those who need more, or for those without hearing loss, we offer a full range of evidence-based programs.
Lenire™
FDA-approved device combining customized sound through Bluetooth headphones with mild tongue stimulation via the Tonguetip™.
Hearing Aids
For patients with hearing loss, properly fit hearing aids reduce tinnitus awareness while restoring access to sound.
CHaTT
Cognitive Habituation Tinnitus Therapy — a comprehensive program that retrains how the brain reacts to tinnitus.
Progressive Tinnitus Management (PTM)
An evidence-based, stepped-care program developed by the VA and used in clinics nationwide.
Tinnitus Activities Treatment (TAT)
Counseling-based therapy focused on thoughts, feelings, hearing, sleep, and concentration related to tinnitus.
Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT)
Combines directive counseling with low-level sound therapy to promote habituation over time.
Mindfulness & CBT
One of the most powerful (and underutilized) tools. Changes how the brain perceives and reacts to tinnitus.
Sound Generators
Wearable or tabletop devices that provide gentle, customized sound — especially useful for sleep and relaxation.
In-office & Online
We offer both in-office and telehealth tinnitus management programs based on your needs and preferences.
A normal sound — not tinnitus.
Ever hear a quick burst of sudden hearing loss (10–30 seconds) followed by a whistling tone? That’s called transient ear noise, and nearly everyone experiences it at some point. It’s completely normal and not categorized as tinnitus.
Tinnitus FAQ
Educational content adapted from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD).
Can tinnitus go away?
Sometimes tinnitus gets better or goes away, but not always. The first step is a hearing and tinnitus evaluation to find out what is driving it.
- If it is linked to hearing loss, hearing aids and sound therapy can help.
- If it is triggered by noise exposure, protecting your ears is key.
- If it is constant or worsening, we recommend a clinical evaluation.
What causes tinnitus?
Tinnitus is most often related to changes in the hearing system, but it can have more than one cause. A professional evaluation helps rule out medical red flags and identify the most likely drivers.
- Hearing loss and noise exposure
- Earwax or middle ear problems
- Jaw tension (TMJ), neck issues, or certain medications
What does a tinnitus evaluation include?
A tinnitus evaluation usually starts with a full hearing test and a detailed history. We then map your tinnitus and talk through treatment options that fit your goals.
- Hearing testing and speech understanding
- Tinnitus questions and symptom review
- Plan for sound therapy, hearing aids, or referrals if needed
What is the best treatment for tinnitus?
There is not one best treatment for everyone. The best plan is based on your hearing, your tinnitus pattern, and how much it impacts sleep, focus, and stress.
- Hearing aids (when hearing loss is present)
- Sound therapy and tinnitus retraining strategies
- Sleep and stress support tools
Do hearing aids help tinnitus?
Yes, hearing aids often help when tinnitus is connected to hearing loss. Amplification can reduce the contrast between tinnitus and silence and can include built-in tinnitus sound options.
- Many people report less awareness of tinnitus with hearing aids.
- Tinnitus features can be customized to your comfort.
When should I see an audiologist for tinnitus?
You should schedule an evaluation if tinnitus is new, one-sided, pulsing, or affecting sleep and daily life. Even if it is not urgent, a plan can lower how much it bothers you.
- Seek medical care right away for sudden hearing changes or severe dizziness.
- Otherwise, an audiology evaluation is a good next step.
Where to learn more.
- American Tinnitus Association — advocacy, research, support
- NIDCD Tinnitus Health Information — the source of much of this FAQ
- NIDCD Directory of Organizations — hearing, balance, voice, speech, language
- Search keywords: tinnitus, noise-induced hearing loss
You don’t have to “just live with it.”
Schedule a tinnitus consultation. We’ll listen to your story, run the right diagnostics, and build a plan that fits your life.
Schedule a ConsultationTinnitus FAQs
Can tinnitus go away?
Sometimes it can, but many people need help to reduce how much it bothers them.
What is the best treatment for tinnitus?
The best plan depends on the cause and your hearing results.
Do hearing aids help tinnitus?
Yes. If hearing loss is part of the picture, hearing aids can reduce tinnitus awareness for many people.
How do you test tinnitus?
A tinnitus evaluation usually starts with a hearing test and a detailed case history.
When should I see an audiologist for tinnitus?
If tinnitus affects sleep, focus, or stress, it is worth getting checked.
Reviewed by Dr. Alexandra Tarvin, Au.D.
Dr. Tarvin is the owner of Elevate Audiology, a hearing and tinnitus clinic serving Easley and Greenville, South Carolina.
If you have tinnitus and want a clear plan, you can schedule an appointment or learn more about our team on the Our Team page.
Locations: 424 Rock Springs Road, Easley SC 29642 (864-447-6611) and Greenville SC (864-447-4183)
