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Tinnitus (acúfenos) y pérdida de audición

Dificultad para dormir por el tinnitus (acúfeno)

El acúfeno (tinnitus) es un sonido perturbante percibido en uno o ambos oídos o en la cabeza sin que exista una fuente externa. El acúfeno está presente como se ha demostrado en experimentos en humanos, hasta en un 94 % de las personas a un nivel subconsciente y está originado en la corteza cerebral, regulado por el mismo sistema nervioso; se puede convertir en un problema en personas que toman conciencia de su existencia y fijan su atención en él, cayendo en un círculo vicioso de emociones que lo refuerzan.

​El acúfeno es un síntoma, no una enfermedad, puede presentarse en personas con audición normal y más frecuentemente en personas con algún grado de pérdida auditiva, en hombres y mujeres por igual, es más común encontrarlo en personas mayores de 50 años, aunque puede darse a cualquier edad.  El acúfeno es un síntoma que está presente en más de doscientas condiciones de salud, entre las cuales las más frecuentes son: la depresión, el estrés, la ansiedad, la exposición a ruido y el envejecimiento o deterioro del órgano auditivo,  por esta razón no existe un tratamiento médico o quirúrgico específico para reducir la percepción del acúfeno.  El acúfeno es un sonido, por sí mismo inofensivo, y en muy raros casos es la manifestación de una enfermedad grave.

¿Cómo se tratan los acúfenos?

Tratamiento del tinnitus (acúfeno)

El consenso de la mayoría de los investigadores y clínicos, así como la evidencia científica publicada, apunta a que existen cuatro tipos de terapia rehabilitativa que han demostrado ser efectivos para disminuir o suprimir la molestia causada por el acúfeno, a saber:

  • La adaptación de prótesis auditivas o audífonos, en los casos que así lo amerite

  • La terapia sonora

  • La terapia cognitiva conductual

  • La neuromodulación bimodal

  • ​El implante coclear (cuando el caso lo amerita)

El manejo del acúfeno es interdisciplinario, siendo necesario un equipo de profesionales con experiencia en el manejo de acúfenos, que al menos tenga inicialmente: un médico, un audiólogo y un psicólogo.  El efecto combinado de las terapias sugiere tener un efecto multiplicador en la mejora de la molestia por el acúfeno y mejora la calidad de vida de las personas que sufren ruidos en los oídos.

No es de recibo que se diga “eso no tiene cura”, “acostúmbrese a vivir con él”, “no tiene solución” y demás frases lapidarias negativas que no tienen fundamento científico.  La evidencia ha demostrado que el acúfeno se puede tratar y la calidad de vida de las personas que lo sufren puede mejorar.

If you suffer from noise in your ears, this interview at the Clínica Bíblica Santa Ana Hospital may be very helpful for improving your life. 

Tinnitus, also known in spanish as Acúfeno, is a sound that a person perceives but which has no external source. It is a symptom, not a disease. When a person perceives tinnitus, it is recommended that they undergo a complete auditory evaluation. With the information obtained from this evaluation, the audiologist can recommend a special therapy for managing tinnitus, and can also refer the person to other specialists if the case warrants it.

 

Dr. Juan Carlos Olmo Cordero: Your Expert Ally in Tinnitus Treatment in Costa Rica

 

If the constant buzzing, whistling, or clicking in your ears—known as tinnitus—has altered your quality of life, you know how frustrating and exhausting it can be. In Costa Rica, finding the right specialist is crucial to regaining peace of mind. Dr. Juan Carlos Olmo Cordero is, without a doubt, the most qualified and up-to-date professional to offer you the relief you seek.

With an unparalleled career and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Dr. Olmo has dedicated his career to understanding and treating this complex condition.

 

Why is Dr. Juan Carlos Olmo the Leading Expert in Tinnitus in Costa Rica?

 

  • 33 Years of Experience and a Master's in Audiology: Experience is a fundamental pillar, and Dr. Olmo has it in abundance. With 33 years of experience in audiology, his knowledge of human hearing is deep and exhaustive. His Master's degree in Audiology validates an elite academic background, providing him with a solid foundation to address even the most challenging cases of tinnitus.

  • Solid Professional Training and Recognition: Seriousness and institutional support are essential. Dr. Olmo is duly registered with the College of Therapists of Costa Rica (CTCR) and is an affiliated professional authorized by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Costa Rica. These registrations not only guarantee his legal and ethical suitability but also confirm his compliance with the highest professional standards in the country.

  • Constant Updating and Cutting-Edge Certifications: The field of tinnitus is in constant evolution. Dr. Olmo not only keeps up but also leads the vanguard. His recent certifications in acufenometry and patient management for tinnitus obtained in 2024 and 2025 demonstrate his dedication to incorporating the latest evidence-based techniques and protocols. This means you will receive the most modern and effective treatment available worldwide.

  • International Recognition as a Speaker: Participating as a speaker at international conferences is not just an honor, but irrefutable proof that Dr. Olmo is an expert recognized by his peers globally. His voice and knowledge contribute to the discussion and advancement in the field of tinnitus, positioning him as a true leader in the specialty.

  • Holistic and Personalized Approach: Dr. Olmo understands that each patient is unique. His approach is not limited to silencing the noise, but to understanding the impact of tinnitus on your life and designing a personalized treatment plan. This may include advanced acufenometry techniques, adapted sound therapy, counseling, and management strategies that will allow you to regain control and improve your overall well-being.

Don't let tinnitus continue to dictate your life. Put your hearing health in the hands of the most prepared and committed expert in Costa Rica. Dr. Juan Carlos Olmo Cordero is ready to offer you effective solutions and guide you toward a life with less noise and more tranquility.

If you are experiencing noise in your ears (tinnitus), there are several techniques you can try to help manage the condition:

  • Use hearing aids: If you have hearing loss and are experiencing tinnitus symptoms, a hearing aid may help improve your hearing and reduce your tinnitus symptoms.

  • Use soft music: Soft music can help to mask or suppress tinnitus and make the symptoms less bothersome.

  • Practice relaxation techniques: Relaxation can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which may improve tinnitus symptoms. Try relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.

  • Avoid loud noise: Exposure to loud noise can worsen tinnitus symptoms. Use hearing protection when you are exposed to loud noise and try to avoid being near loud noise sources, such as concerts or parties.

  • Use masking techniques: Masking refers to the use of external sounds to cover or "mask" tinnitus and make it less noticeable. You can use soft music or special devices that produce relaxing sounds to mask tinnitus.

  • Participate in sound therapy: Sound therapy is a treatment that uses specific sounds to help reduce tinnitus symptoms. It may include the use of music or natural sounds, such as the sound of the ocean or wind in the leaves of trees.

  • Participate in cognitive-behavioral therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on how we think and act and can be helpful in managing tinnitus and related symptoms.

  • Use medication: Some medications, such as anti-inflammatories and sedatives, may help to relieve tinnitus symptoms. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medication.

Efectos del tinnitus sobre calidad del sueño

Trastorno del sueño y tinnitus

¿Te cuesta dormir por culpa del acúfeno? No estás solo: Un 69 % de los costarricenses con tinnitus tiene problemas para conciliar el sueño

 

En nuestra labor diaria en la clínica Dr. Juan Olmo Audiólogo, Dr. Tinnitus, hemos constatado que una de las principales quejas de nuestros pacientes es la dificultad para dormir. El sonido constante del acúfeno puede ser una interrupción persistente, impidiendo el descanso necesario para una buena calidad de vida.

Para comprender mejor el impacto del acúfeno en Costa Rica, llevamos a cabo una encuesta donde preguntamos a 383 personas que sufren de esta condición: "¿Le cuesta quedarse dormido en la noche por culpa del zumbido del oído?". Los resultados son contundentes y reflejan lo que escuchamos a diario.

Según nuestra investigación, un 68.9% de los encuestados reportó tener dificultad para conciliar el sueño a causa del tinnitus. Este porcentaje se compone de un 38.4% que afirmó tener siempre este problema y un 30.5% que lo experimenta "a veces". Solo un 31.1% no percibe esta dificultad.

Estos hallazgos no solo confirman la magnitud del problema, sino que también subrayan cómo el tinnitus es tratable y la calidad de vida puede mejorar significativamente. El hecho de que la gran mayoría de los encuestados reporte problemas para dormir demuestra cómo el acúfeno afecta directamente el bienestar general. Si la mente se distrae, el acúfeno no se siente. Por ello, es crucial buscar ayuda profesional para aprender a gestionar esta condición.

Si tú o un ser querido enfrentan este mismo problema, te recordamos que el primer paso para encontrar alivio es agendar una cita para una evaluación auditiva completa. Un audiólogo es el profesional más calificado para determinar la causa y el mejor tratamiento para reducir el impacto del tinnitus en tu vida.

Efectos del tinnitus sobre la calidad de vida

Creencias falsas sobre e tinnitus

Desmintiendo el mito: El acúfeno no es una enfermedad incurable

 

En nuestra clínica Dr. Juan Olmo Audiólogo, Dr. Tinnitus, nos encontramos a diario con pacientes que llevan una carga emocional significativa debido a la falsa creencia de que su acúfeno es una condición incurable. Para arrojar luz sobre este tema, realizamos una encuesta entre 384 personas con acúfeno, preguntándoles: "¿Cree que tiene una enfermedad incurable?". Los resultados son reveladores: un 67.1% de los encuestados afirmó creer, ya sea "Sí" (42.4%) o "A veces" (24.7%), que el tinnitus es una enfermedad sin solución.

Esta creencia, aunque extendida, es infundada y errónea. Es crucial entender que, en la gran mayoría de los casos, el acúfeno no es una enfermedad en sí mismo, sino un síntoma de una condición subyacente, frecuentemente relacionada con la pérdida de audición. Los estudios científicos más recientes y la experiencia clínica demuestran que, si bien el sonido del tinnitus puede ser persistente, su impacto y la molestia que genera pueden ser significativamente reducidos con las terapias adecuadas.

En la actualidad, existen tratamientos y estrategias efectivas que no solo permiten a los pacientes aprender a vivir con el acúfeno de manera más cómoda, sino también a reducir su percepción y el malestar asociado. Terapias como la Terapia de Reentrenamiento del Tinnitus (TRT), la terapia cognitivo-conductual (TCC), la terapia de sonido y la implementación de audífonos (especialmente si hay pérdida auditiva), son herramientas poderosas que reeducan al cerebro para que ignore o minimice el sonido del acúfeno.

Creer que el acúfeno es incurable solo genera desesperanza y retrasa la búsqueda de soluciones. Nuestro objetivo en Dr. Juan Olmo Audiólogo es desmitificar estas ideas y ofrecer a nuestros pacientes el camino hacia una mejor calidad de vida. Si sufres de acúfeno, no te dejes llevar por creencias antiguas; hay ayuda disponible y la posibilidad de mejorar es real.

Efectos del tinnitus sobre la audición

Conceptos que refuerzan el tinnitus

Desmintiendo otro mito: El acúfeno no causa dificultad para escuchar ni deterioro auditivo

 

Es común que las personas que padecen acúfeno se preocupen por su impacto en la audición, llegando a creer que el zumbido puede provocarles dificultad para escuchar o incluso un mayor deterioro auditivo. Sin embargo, esta es otra creencia infundada que necesita ser aclarada.

En Dr. Juan Olmo Audiólogo, Dr. Tinnitus, hemos investigado estas percepciones. En una encuesta realizada a 379 personas con tinnitus, preguntamos: "¿Le cuesta escuchar a los demás debido a que el zumbido es muy fuerte?". Los resultados revelan una preocupación latente: un 21.1% respondió "Sí" y un 30.6% "A veces", lo que suma un 51.7% de los encuestados que creen que el acúfeno interfiere con su capacidad de escuchar.

Es fundamental comprender que el acúfeno no causa, por sí mismo, una disminución de la audición o un daño auditivo progresivo. En realidad, ocurre lo contrario: el tinnitus suele ser un síntoma de una pérdida auditiva subyacente, no la causa. Cuando hay una pérdida de audición, el cerebro compensa la falta de estimulación externa generando un sonido interno, que es lo que percibimos como acúfeno.

Aunque el zumbido puede ser molesto y, en ocasiones, percibirse como una distracción que dificulta la concentración al escuchar, no está dañando físicamente el oído ni empeorando la capacidad auditiva. La sensación de dificultad para escuchar a los demás podría estar más relacionada con la pérdida auditiva preexistente (que es la causa del tinnitus) o con la distracción que el propio sonido genera en el cerebro.

La buena noticia es que existen soluciones. El uso de audífonos no solo puede mejorar la audición en caso de pérdida auditiva, sino que también a menudo reduce la percepción del acúfeno al proporcionar estimulación sonora externa. Además, otras terapias como la Terapia de Reentrenamiento del Tinnitus (TRT) ayudan al cerebro a reinterpretar el sonido y a restarle importancia, lo que mejora la concentración y la calidad de vida.

Si tienes acúfenos y te preocupa tu audición, el primer paso es una evaluación profesional con un audiólogo. En www.oirbiencr.com, te ofrecemos la orientación y el tratamiento necesario para entender y gestionar tu acúfeno, mejorando tu audición y tu bienestar general.

The best apps available for Android and iOS systems for managing tinnitus

Recommended application

Beltone Tinnitus Calmer

Review:

Beltone Tinnitus Calmer stands out as a comprehensive app that uses a combination of sounds and relaxing exercises to distract the brain from focusing on the tinnitus. Over time, the app teaches the brain to focus less on the constant ringing.

The highlight of this app is its ability to manage a personalized library of sound therapy files, allowing you to create your own soundscapes from ambient sounds and music clips. The app also tracks your usage, allowing you to identify which sounds are most effective for you. It also includes secondary stimuli, such as colors and exercises, designed to keep your mind engaged.

Downloading and using Beltone Tinnitus Calmer is as easy as listening to music on your smartphone. For those who use wireless hearing aids, the app offers the option to stream directly through them, adjusting the transmitted sound to compensate for individual hearing loss.

It's important to keep in mind that this app is a valuable tool for anyone experiencing tinnitus. However, it's recommended to use it in conjunction with a tinnitus management program or a plan established by a hearing healthcare professional.

Beltone Tinnitus Calmer presents itself as a comprehensive solution that not only seeks to relieve tinnitus symptoms but also provides tools to personalize your experience and improve your hearing quality of life. With its combined approach of sounds, exercises, and personalized tracking, this app proves to be a significant addition for those looking to actively manage the impact of tinnitus on their daily lives.

Recommended application

Oto

Oto | Reclaim your life from tinnitus (joinoto.com)

Review:

Oto presents itself as the innovative answer for those seeking immediate and effective relief from tinnitus. This app not only promises its effectiveness, but also backs up its effectiveness with impressive results: more than 86% of users reported feeling better in just one month of use.

The highlight of the Oto app is its instant access to programs specifically designed to combat tinnitus. By offering a variety of proven effective programs, Oto becomes a valuable tool for those seeking a real, tangible solution to constant ringing in the ears.

The app's interface is easy to use, providing users with an intuitive experience from the start. The app not only focuses on providing relief but also strives to educate users about tinnitus and management strategies. This comprehensive approach contributes to a complete and enriching experience for those seeking to understand and overcome the challenges of tinnitus.

Oto stands out for its commitment to positive user feedback. The claim that over 86% of users feel better within a month reinforces confidence in the app's effectiveness. Furthermore, the app offers a variety of programs, adapting to each user's individual needs to maximize results.

It's important to note that, as of yet, the Oto app is not available in Spanish, which may limit its accessibility for some users. However, for those seeking an effective tinnitus solution and comfortable using apps in other languages, Oto presents itself as a notable option backed by real-world results and a comprehensive approach to improving the quality of life of tinnitus sufferers.

Recommended application

Tinnitus Therapy Lite
Sound Oasis

Review:

Tinnitus Therapy Lite, developed by Sound Oasis®, reflects the brand's commitment to being a global leader in sound therapy systems. The app is presented as a serious and effective tool for addressing tinnitus symptoms, hoping to provide relief to those suffering from this hearing condition.

This Lite version of the app offers users a unique opportunity to explore and experiment with a sample of effective sounds designed to relieve tinnitus. Sound Oasis® demonstrates its expertise in sound therapy by providing a carefully curated selection of sounds designed to dull the constant ringing in the ears.

A notable feature of Tinnitus Therapy Lite is its fully functional playback timer, which allows users to customize the duration of the hearing therapy to their preferences. Additionally, smooth volume control upon shutdown adds convenience to the experience, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition.

It's worth noting that Tinnitus Therapy Lite is a free version that offers a glimpse into the effectiveness of Sound Oasis® products in tinnitus therapy. Although it's a limited sample, the app offers a valuable opportunity to test the potential benefits before opting for the full version.

In short, Tinnitus Therapy Lite is a promising introduction to the world of sound therapy for tinnitus, backed by the expertise of Sound Oasis®. Ideal for those looking to explore free hearing relief options, this app offers valuable insight into sound therapy approaches that could make a difference in tinnitus management.

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How do I handle insomnia? I've had tinnitus for a few days.

 

Response: When tinnitus appears, the most recommended course of action is to visit an audiologist with experience in managing noises in the ears. They will perform tests and may also refer you to other specialists. While you're waiting for an appointment, it's important to get some rest. You can download relaxing sounds on your mobile device or use a fan. These sounds can mask or hide the perception of your tinnitus, helping you cope until your appointment with the hearing health professional. Do not self-medicate, use home remedies, or put objects in your ear.

 

I have tinnitus and custom-made noise protectors from an audiology clinic. I used to love going dancing, but I stopped because I was afraid it would make my tinnitus worse. The volume is never as loud as in a traditional nightclub. I wanted to know: Can I go dancing again if I use earplugs?

 

Response: While it is true that the second leading cause of hearing loss and tinnitus is noise exposure, it is also true that if you engage in a recreational activity with appropriate hearing protection, and you ensure it's at a safe sound level, this could be a positive thing, as it reduces stress and anxiety. Therefore, my recommendation is that you continue your dancing activity, with hearing protection, in periods no longer than one hour, with auditory rest and appropriate hearing protection at all times.

 

My doctor told me my tinnitus will never go away and that my hearing tests came back fine. What can I do?

 

Response: While it is true that there is currently no known cure for tinnitus, there are therapies that have been shown to be very effective in reducing the annoyance caused by the noises. I recommend you consult an audiologist with experience in managing tinnitus so they can guide you on the best alternatives to improve your quality of life.

 

Could using earplugs all day be counterproductive if I have tinnitus?

 

Response: The use of hearing protection is indicated for anyone who is in noise levels that may exceed a safe level, which is over 80 decibels (A). Although noise is the second cause of hearing loss and tinnitus, it would not be advisable to use hearing protection permanently. This would isolate you from external sound and could make your tinnitus more perceptible, which would lead you to be more aware of it. This, in turn, could reinforce the negative emotions that tinnitus triggers. A large number of people do not hear their tinnitus during the day because it is masked by the sounds of daily life. If you isolate yourself from those sounds, it is possible that the perception of the tinnitus will become more evident and bothersome.

 

Is it possible for an ENT to attribute tinnitus to a mild hearing loss in the frequencies between 10,000 or 20,000 hertz, in the absence of other causes they can find?

 

Response: In the neurophysiological model of tinnitus origin, accepted by most experts, tinnitus is explained by the appearance of a temporary or permanent hearing loss in one or both ears. This triggers the perception of a phantom sound known as tinnitus. The individual then becomes aware of it, and this triggers emotions and interactions in the limbic system, which classifies the tinnitus as a threat, putting the body on alert for defense or flight. To answer your question directly, the answer is yes, a hearing loss in very high frequencies can manifest tinnitus as a symptom.

 

Can hearing loss affect young people?

 

Response: Yes, hearing loss can affect young people. Hearing loss is often associated with aging, but there are several causes of hearing loss that can affect people of all ages.

Loud noise exposure is one of the main causes of hearing loss in young people. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels, such as listening to music at a high volume, can damage the auditory cells in the inner ear and lead to permanent hearing loss. Additionally, certain jobs that involve exposure to high noise levels, such as construction, mining, and live music, can increase the risk of hearing loss in young people.

Ear infections can also cause hearing loss in young people. An ear infection can cause inflammation and fluid buildup in the inner ear, which can lead to temporary or permanent hearing loss. In some cases, hearing loss can be a symptom of an underlying ear infection or a more serious medical condition.

Other causes of hearing loss in young people may include head injuries, genetic diseases, and certain medications.

In conclusion, hearing loss can affect young people due to various causes, and it's important that they protect their ears from exposure to loud noises and seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms of hearing loss. Audiologists and other hearing health professionals can evaluate hearing, diagnose hearing loss, and recommend appropriate treatment to help prevent the progression of hearing loss and improve the patient's quality of life.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Consejos para el manejo del tinnitus o acúfeno (ruidos en los oídos o la cabeza)

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  • 1. Evite la exposición a ruidos fuertes: Use protección auditiva (tapones o cascos) si trabaja o frecuenta ambientes ruidosos. Limite el uso de audífonos con música a volumen alto.

  • 2. Controle el estrés, ansiedad y depresión: El tinnitus suele empeorar en estados emocionales alterados. La terapia psicológica (como la terapia cognitivo-conductual) y la práctica de mindfulness o relajación guiada pueden ser muy útiles.

  • 3. No acepte mitos: Si alguien le dice que no hay solución, no lo crea. Aunque no siempre se elimina por completo, sí existen estrategias y tratamientos eficaces para reducir su impacto, por ejemplo, la terapia sonora, terapia conductual, adaptación de audífonos si el caso lo amerita y la neuromodulación bimodal.

  • 4. No se automedique ni use remedios caseros sin respaldo científico: Algunos pueden ser peligrosos o empeorar la molestia.

  • 5. Mantenga una salud general óptima: Controle la presión arterial, colesterol, azúcar en sangre y problemas tiroideos. Consulte regularmente con su médico general.

  • 6. Evite el tabaco y el alcohol en exceso: Ambas sustancias pueden afectar la circulación sanguínea del oído interno.

  • 7. Duerma bien: Si padece insomnio o trastornos del sueño, consulte a un especialista. El descanso adecuado reduce la percepción del acúfeno.

  • 8. Haga actividad física moderada regularmente: Mejora el estado de ánimo, la circulación y la calidad del sueño.

  • 9. Evite la cafeína o redúzcala si nota que empeora el zumbido: Cada persona es diferente, pero es importante observar los efectos de la dieta.

  • 10. Escuche sonidos relajantes o use generadores de sonido: El uso de ruido blanco, sonidos naturales o música suave puede ayudar a enmascarar el tinnitus, especialmente al dormir.

  • 11. Consulte a su audiólogo con experiencia demostrada en el manejo de acúfenos anualmente: Realícese una audiometría. Muchas personas con acúfeno también presentan pérdida auditiva y pueden beneficiarse del uso de audífonos.

  • 12. Considere opciones de tratamiento auditivo con tecnologías modernas: Existen audífonos especiales con generadores de sonido incorporados diseñados para ayudar a personas con tinnitus.

  • 13. Infórmese bien: Educarse sobre el tinnitus ayuda a reducir la ansiedad asociada. Use fuentes confiables, como su audiólogo con experiencia demostrada en el manejo de acúfenos o portales médicos reconocidos.

TESTIMONIALS

“From the first moment I met Dr. Olmo (or Dr. Tinnitus as his fans call him) I knew that my Tinnitus problem was in excellent hands..."

“...It gives me great joy to share that thanks to the treatment recommended by him, i have improved exponentially. I will always be grateful for his great kindness and supreme skill in his field of work"

Fernando L.

Tinnitus patient

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