Tinnitus: A Tingling Mystery to be Decrypted

Abstract

Tinnitus is a hearing disorder that causes ringing, buzzing or hissing sensation to the patient’s auditory senses. It has become a very common complaint over the years affecting around 7-8% of the human population all over the world. The disorder causes the patients to feel irritable, annoyed, depressed, and distressed. As a result, it obstructs their sense of relaxation, enjoyment, and even their sleep - thus forcing them to avoid any social gatherings. There has been a substantial amount of work that has been carried out pertinent to this disorder. This paper reviews existing research and work done regarding Tinnitus effects, causes, and diagnosis. The numerous ways in which Tinnitus could affect an individual have been depicted. From the plethora of probable causes of this disorder, the most conceivable ones are highlighted. Moreover, this paper documents and reviews the attempts at treating Tinnitus, relevant engineering breakthroughs, and the various ways in which Tinnitus noise is suppressed – such as Tinnitus Retraining Therapy, Neuromodulation, and Signal processing approach. The manuscripts highlight the pros and cons of these methods. Over 45 research articles and other reliable internet medical sources were reviewed and these pieces of work were contrasted. These findings should help in understanding both – the disorder, as well as the situation of the patients suffering from it. Through this manuscript, an attempt was made to spread awareness about the mysterious disorder.