Noises in the ears after cochlear implantation

If tinnitus occurs as an undesirable side effect of cochlear implantation, it is usually only temporary. As hearing is reactivated and speech comprehension improves, the ringing in the ears usually disappears by itself.

Sometimes cochlear implant users report hearing noises, also known as tinnitus, since the operation. Tinnitus is therefore considered as a possible risk when the surgeon prepares a CI candidate for cochlear implantation. As irritating as ringing in the ears can be for those affected, fortunately the problem is usually short-lived. There is a logical explanation for the development of this side effect.

Tinnitus as a short-term consequence of surgery

Generally, tinnitus can have various causes. Research suggests that alterations in nerve activity in the cochlea are frequently responsible for it. Such changes can also occur occasionally during implantation. Surgery can sometimes induce a minor hearing modification without an implant, potentially leading to tinnitus as a direct consequence.

However, as soon as the cochlear implant is activated, the next change occurs - a reversal of the original hearing loss, so to speak. As a result, the tinnitus recedes into the background as the hearing improves and often disappears completely.

Implantation as a remedy for tinnitus

CI candidates often complain of tinnitus even before the operation. This can change in the short term as a result of the operation. In the medium term, the regained hearing also helps them to reduce or completely suppress the tinnitus. Scientific studies show that those affected report significant relief with regard to their ringing in the ears around 3 to 6 months after the CI system is activated.

The stories of many sufferers confirm the results of the studies. In principle, all hearing systems help to combat existing tinnitus .

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