People with tinnitus (noise in the ears) and decreased sound tolerance have access to an innovative treatment program at the UPMC Center for Audiology and Hearing Aids.
Our goal is to evaluate, diagnose, and treat tinnitus and decreased sound tolerance so effectively that it will no longer be a problem.
For testing or to make an appointment, please call
412-647-2100
Our center employs a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing and treating tinnitus and decreased sound tolerance.
Our team consists of:
Additionally, we frequently collaborate with primary care physicians, mental health providers, dentists, and physical therapists. The members of the team work closely together to ensure the best treatment program and the highest standard of care.
The first step to treatment is a medical and audiological evaluation.
During the medical evaluation process, your doctor will:
The audiologist will perform an array of tests that will provide information about your tinnitus, hearing, and decreased sound tolerance.
Some of these tests are specific to your individual tinnitus and are not normally performed in other clinics.
Testing may include:
The doctor and audiologist will discuss these results and you and your audiologist will formulate a treatment plan designed specifically for you.
After your evaluation at UPMC's Center for Audiology and Hearing Aids, the next step is a counseling session.
During your counseling session, we will:
Typically, treatment plans involve the use of low level sounds provided by noise generating devices, hearing aids, or environmental sounds.
Your audiologist will fully explain your treatment plan during your counseling session.
Continuity of care is essential for achieving our goal.
After your initial visit to the Center for Audiology and Hearing Aids, we will schedule follow-up appointments at three and six months. Visits six months and after will involve some testing and further counseling.
Tinnitus and decreased sound tolerance treatment generally takes between 12 and 18 months, however we will continue scheduling follow-up visits as long as necessary.
