Tinnitus and Hearing Aids: Where Sound Therapy Apps Fit In
Tinnitus and Hearing Aids: Where Sound Therapy Apps Fit In
Understanding the difference between hearing aids and sound therapy apps—and when to use each.
If you have tinnitus, you have likely encountered recommendations for both hearing aids and sound therapy apps. Understanding the difference matters because they address tinnitus through different mechanisms and serve different needs.
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Research indicates that up to 90% of tinnitus cases occur alongside some degree of hearing loss
For many people, properly fitted hearing aids provide effective relief. Sound therapy apps serve a different but potentially complementary role. This guide clarifies what each approach does, when each might be appropriate, and how they can work together.
How Each Approach Works
Hearing Aids
- Amplify environmental sounds that hearing loss has reduced
- Restore access to ambient sounds for natural sound enrichment
- Many include built-in tinnitus masking features
- Address both hearing loss and tinnitus simultaneously
- Worn throughout waking hours
- Require professional fitting and evaluation
Sound Therapy Apps
- Provide masking sounds through phone speakers or headphones
- Do not amplify environmental sounds
- Useful for people without significant hearing loss
- Offer situational use (sleep, stress, work)
- Accessible immediately without fitting process
- Can supplement hearing aids when needed
How Hearing Aids Help Tinnitus
Hearing aids address tinnitus primarily by amplifying environmental sounds that hearing loss has reduced. When you cannot hear soft environmental sounds clearly, your brain may increase internal gain, which can make tinnitus more prominent.
By restoring access to ambient sounds, hearing aids provide natural sound enrichment throughout the day. Many modern hearing aids also include built-in tinnitus masking features that play soothing sounds directly into the ear canal.
For people with confirmed hearing loss and tinnitus, hearing aids are often considered the primary management tool. They address both conditions simultaneously and are worn throughout waking hours.
What Sound Therapy Apps Do Differently
Sound therapy apps provide masking and enrichment sounds through your phone speakers or regular headphones. They do not amplify environmental sounds or address hearing loss.
Apps are useful for people without significant hearing loss who experience tinnitus. They provide accessible relief without the cost or fitting process of hearing aids. They offer situational use, such as sound therapy for sleep or during stressful periods. They can supplement hearing aids when built-in masking features are insufficient.
Tinnitus Relief App specifically offers features like background play during phone calls, which hearing aid masking may not provide depending on the device and streaming capabilities.
When to Consider Each Option
Hearing aids may be appropriate if:
- You have diagnosed hearing loss, even mild
- You struggle to hear conversations or environmental sounds
- Your audiologist recommends amplification
- You want an all-day solution worn continuously
Sound therapy apps may be appropriate if:
- You have normal hearing or very mild loss
- You want immediate relief while awaiting professional evaluation
- You need situational sound therapy, such as sleep support
- You want to supplement hearing aids with additional masking options
Important: If you have not had a hearing evaluation, consider scheduling one. Many people are unaware of mild hearing loss that contributes to tinnitus. Apps cannot diagnose hearing status or replace professional assessment.
Using Apps Alongside Hearing Aids
Many hearing aid users find apps useful in situations where they are not wearing their devices.
Sleep support
Most people remove hearing aids at night when tinnitus often feels most prominent. Apps provide continuous masking through the night.
Bluetooth streaming
Some users stream app sounds through Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids for additional masking options beyond built-in sounds.
Room sound enrichment
Use apps on speakers for nighttime sound enrichment throughout the room rather than just in-ear masking.
Discuss your combined approach with your audiologist to ensure safe volume levels and optimal coordination between devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a sound therapy app if I already have hearing aids?
Yes. Many hearing aid users find apps useful in situations where they are not wearing their devices, such as during sleep. Some users stream app sounds through Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids for additional masking options. Discuss your combined approach with your audiologist to ensure safe volume levels.
Should I get hearing aids or use an app for tinnitus?
If you have diagnosed hearing loss, hearing aids are often considered the primary management tool as they address both hearing loss and tinnitus. Sound therapy apps are useful for people without significant hearing loss, or as a supplement to hearing aids. A hearing evaluation can help determine the right approach for you.
Do sound therapy apps work if I have hearing loss?
Apps can still provide some benefit, but they do not amplify environmental sounds or address the hearing loss itself. For people with hearing loss, hearing aids typically provide more comprehensive relief. Apps may still be useful as a supplement, especially for sleep or when hearing aids are removed.
Explore Your Options
If you are exploring tinnitus relief options, Tinnitus Relief App provides immediate access to sound therapy. Download to try the free white noise feature and determine whether apps meet your needs.
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Disclaimer: Tinnitus Relief App provides sound therapy tools for symptom management. It is not a medical device, treatment, or cure. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of tinnitus or hearing-related concerns. © 2025 Tinnitus Relief App.