Soft Laser Treatment for Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a persistent sound in the ear such as ringing, buzzing, roaring or whistling. Soft laser treatment, or low level laser therapy, has been tested as a treatment for tinnitus. According to the National Institutes of Health, its benefits have not yet been confirmed. In addition, the Tinnitus Laser Centre in Sweden and also found it to be not entirely successful. However, there were some clinical studies that had positive results and the therapy continues to be explored.
Gingko Biloba Infusion
Prior to the laser therapy, patients are infused with gingko biloba.
The Laser
The laser is directed at one cm above the mastoid, which is part of the temporal bone.
Infrared Laser
Infrared laser has been tried over a 10-week period, directing the laser into the passage of the ear, the meatus acusticus. The results showed an improvement in about half of the patients.
Laser Irradiation
The results of laser irradiation on the cochlea, the auditory area of the ear, showed that laser treatment may reduce tinnitus. This test was conducted on guinea pigs.
Continuing Studies
Many studies have been done using varied dosages of gingko biloba and levels of laser therapy, as well as different locations of the ear. While some studies have been unsuccessful, there have been a few positive results.
Age Factor
Younger individuals who have tinnitus as a result of excessive exposure to loud noises, such as concerts, discos and loud stereos, are treated more successfully than older people who have suffered with the condition over a long period of time.
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