A Deeper Source of Tinnitus?

Although traditional theories of tinnitus suggest the condition is caused by cochlear damage, a recent study published in the Journal of Neuroscience points to another source - the brain cranking up the volume to account for subtle hearing loss.  Researchers focused on 15 participants who reported tinnitus symptoms, as well as 18 participants free of tinnitus.

After recording the brain activity of participants as they listened to a series or rapid-fire clicks, researchers found that some sounds showed a reduced amplitude, while sounds generated closer to the brain had normal amplitude - even in those with tinnitus.  The authors suggest these results are evidence of "hidden hearing loss," and tinnitus is merely the brain's attempt to compensate by turning up the volume.  Search "ringing deeper" at www.sciencenews.org.

from The Asha Leader