Men and women ages 18 to 75 with problematic tinnitus may be eligible to participate in a University of Iowa research study on tinnitus suppression therapy.

A tinnitus suppressor is a device that delivers customized and patterned sound intended to provide tinnitus relief. The study, which will involve one visit to UI Hospitals and Clinics, will compare a tinnitus suppressor to more traditional white noise masker sound. The UI study is funded by SoundCure. Compensation is available.

Approximately one in every 10 Americans will experience some form of tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, which occurs when you perceive sounds that originate in your head. There is no cure for tinnitus, which can affect emotional well-being, hearing, sleep and concentration.

To determine if you are eligible to participate in this or other tinnitus studies, visit the Tinnitus Registry website and complete the tinnitus registry form.

When to Contact a Medical Professional for Tinnitus

• If ear noises start after a head injury.
• If the noises are associated with other unexplained symptoms like dizziness, feeling off balance, nausea, or vomiting.
• If you have unexplained ear noises that bother you even after self-help measures.