What is TinniSoothe? A new approach to sound therapy

Tinnitus, often described as a ringing, buzzing or hissing in the ears, affects 1 in 7 people worldwide. Although tinnitus is not physically harmful, it can cause considerable mental distress and isolation.

Currently, there is no cure for tinnitus. However, various methods are available that can help alleviate symptoms and make the condition more manageable. One commonly used approach is sound therapy, which uses specialised techniques and sound therapy machines to reduce an individual’s awareness of internal sounds. Sound therapy can even be effective for those experiencing severe symptoms.

One example of sound therapy innovation is a British company, TinniSoothe, which launched its wearable white noise device to the public in 2024. This device aims to provide 247 tinnitus relief in a discreet and practical way.

The story behind TinniSoothe

The company’s founder, Howard Presland, developed music-induced tinnitus that worsened following a traumatic brain injury suffered in 2019. Initially, he spent a lot of time surfing the web and tried everything he could to provide himself with relief: hypnotherapy, acupuncture, vitamin supplements and more. Nothing seemed to help, and he became fixated on the relentless noise inside his head.

Through all his research and attempts, he observed one thing seemed to help. The provision of white noise provided effective relief by distracting his brain from the tinnitus. Rather than needing to turn the TV and radio on continuously, he wanted to find a way to make this white noise provision a more permanent fixture, which was also practical, effective and affordable.

Starting in 2018, he began developing prototypes with his brother Lloyd, an electrical engineer. Howard then secured a patent with the help of an old friend Jez Lawson, and between them, they set about turning the turned the invention into a business. By 2021, Howard and Jez were granted a patent, and in 2024, TinniSoothe was launched to the public.

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How TinniSoothe works

TinniSoothe is the world’s only sound therapy device to give users 24/7 tinnitus relief, without the need for anything in or around the ears. It’s registered as a class 1 medical device and is proudly made in Britain.

The device subtly emits gentle white noise towards the ears of the wearer via a small speaker at the top, to divert their attention away from the sound of the tinnitus.
Users can configure the volume and frequency to suit their exact needs.
During the day, the device can be worn on a lanyard, which can be worn under clothing, or clipped onto clothing.
When docked at night, it automatically switches to night-time settings and sounds, meaning you can have a “constant companion” to take the edge off your tinnitus. The docking station also re-charges the lithium battery for use the next day. You put it on in the morning and dock it at night, it’s a simple as that.

Over time, TinniSoothe can assist the brain in habituation – a process where the brain learns to classify tinnitus as an unimportant sound and ignores it. In the absence of a cure, habituation is one of the best outcomes for someone living with tinnitus.

It’s important to remember that tinnitus is highly individual, and what works for one person may not work for another. Whether you suspect you have tinnitus or are already living with it and want to review your treatment options, it’s best to speak with an audiologist. They can recommend the most suitable treatment plan for your lifestyle and needs.

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