Question: My ENT doctor wants to presribe masking for my tinnitus. He didn't seem particularly well versed on the subject.

My question is this - will masking work by itself alone? Shouldn't some form of training or routine be developed in conjuction with the use of masking? It would seem that I would be set up for failure if I wasn't instructed.

The reason I ask is I am unemployed (lost too much time since December for various issues related to ear infection/cellulitis) and to spend $900 per ear plus $100 for fitting is money I do not have and my HMO will not likely cover it. I have the time - not the funds.

Answer: as I understood, masking with a masker should overtune your tinnitus by providing a louder noise than your t. and doesn't help your brain to habituate to your t. and learn to overhear it.

TRT with its main components t.-information, psychological consultation and the white noise generator. This noise generator produces a wide-frequent "rush". This noise doesn't mask your t.. It' s less loud than your t. and has to be worn for about 6 hours a day for at least 18 months to tune down your t. and retrain your brain and hearing system.