Blog Layout

Benefits of Lyric4 for Tinnitus and Hearing Loss

Shukri Abi • Feb 23, 2022
Benefits of Lyric4 for Tinnitus and Hearing Loss


Around 1 in 3 people in Australia suffer from tinnitus at some point in their life; and around 1 in 6 have constant symptoms. However, relief is available. Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. Tinnitus can be caused by a number of environmental factors, including exposure to loud noises, ear infections, allergies and ageing. There are several other types of tinnitus that exist beyond 'ringing in the ears', which include hissing, buzzing or whirring.


While there is no cure, scientific research has proven that real tinnitus relief is possible. Hearing aids have been shown to provide relief, as they have the ability to amplify missing auditory information for your auditory system to process. For those with treatable hearing loss, wearing a hearing aid increases sensory input and has been widely used in the relief of tinnitus for many years.


The key? Treating the most common underlying cause – namely, hearing loss – alongside coaching to help patients better understand and cope with the irritable sounds they’re experiencing. It's been shown that hearing aids, such as the Lyric4 by Phonak, can reduce tinnitus-related distress for those with mild, moderate and severe tinnitus. In fact, a scientific study showed that wearing a hearing aid reduces the impact of tinnitus on daily life by 70%, making it easier to focus.


Best Hearing Aid Option to Treat Tinnitus?


Hearing aids have been widely used in the relief of tinnitus for those with treatable hearing loss. Appropriate amplification through hearing aids provides missing auditory information for the auditory pathway to process, diverting attention from tinnitus.

When daily wear hearing aids are removed however, for instance at night, tinnitus can return and continue to be problematic. Being able to provide amplification continually throughout the day and night, as is offered by Phonak Lyric, may offer additional relief. 

A study conducted by the University of Melbourne in 2019 investigated tinnitus management, comparing continuous amplification using the Lyric hearing aid with amplification alone, or with the addition of a masking noise (combination device). Results revealed that Lyric was the most appropriate amplification solution for the management of tinnitus. 


Lyric4 by Phonak


The Lyric4 by Phonak has been developed to benefit both hearing loss and tinnitus. It is clinically proven to reduce the impact of tinnitus on a daily basis. It’s been shown that people with Lyric4 report a heightened ability to focus, while hearing what matters most and enjoying an improved sleep.


What Are The Benefits of Lyric4 For Tinnitus?


1. Reduced Tinnitus Awareness


Tinnitus awareness consists of two components, loudness and annoyance. The benefit of amplification has been demonstrated in the reduction of tinnitus loudness to improve awareness for those with tinnitus.


2. Increased Audibility


A key objective of hearing aid fitting is to regain audibility, or sounds that are not heard, through amplification. Hearing aids amplify audible information and over time this increases the ability to discriminate between desired and undesired sound. This is helpful for tinnitus because the amplification of salient environmental sounds interrupts tonic (background) tinnitus awareness.


3. Improved Signal-to-Noise Discrimination


Hearing aid users often report that hearing speech in noise is improved with amplification. This improvement has been attributed to several factors, including the benefit of amplified speech on audibility and distraction of tinnitus awareness by salient environmental sounds.


4. Improved Quality of Life


Many reports of the benefit of amplification for those with hearing loss include improved quality of life. This includes a reduction in anxiety and stress associated with the impact of hearing loss and amplification wear, as well as an increase in social participation.


5. Improved Sleep Quality


Disturbed sleep (including difficulty falling asleep) is common in those with hearing loss. The use of amplification has been associated with improved sleep quality, including reduced awakenings due to tinnitus awareness.   

Hearing aids, such as the Lyric4 offer continuous sound delivery via a digital platform, so patients receive amplification throughout the day and night.


What Do Studies Suggest?


A study conducted by the University of Melbourne in 2019 investigated tinnitus management, comparing continuous amplification using the Lyric hearing aid with amplification alone, or with the addition of a masking noise (combination device). Results revealed that Lyric was the most appropriate amplification solution for the management of tinnitus. 


Combining this intervention with counselling from a qualified audiologist, such as the team at Abi Hearing, can bring even greater benefits.


“Clinical evidence has shown that Lyric can be recommended for those who are suitable candidates, to facilitate faster and larger reduction in their tinnitus, due to the fact that they’re inserted deep into the ear and worn 24/7 for months at a time” says Shukri Abi, senior clinician and founder of Abi Hearing. Our approach is holistic when it comes to tinnitus and hearing loss.


Looking for tinnitus relief? 

Take action today. Phone Abi Hearing on (02) 9399 9536 to book a consultation, or visit www.abihearing.com.au

Hearing Test Online
By Shukri Abi 13 Jun, 2023
Learn how online hearing consultations are revolutionising audiology. Understand the benefits of telehealth services, from accessibility and convenience to personalised ongoing care.
Covid Hearing Loss
By Shukri Abi 13 Jun, 2023
Uncover the connection between Covid-19 and auditory health. This comprehensive guide details current research, implications for individuals with hearing loss, and strategies for health professionals managing this new challenge.
Invisible Hearing Aids
By Shukri Abi 13 Jun, 2023
Discover the considerable benefits and invisible hearing aids. From technology to cost, see how they compare to traditional devices. Find out if they're right for you!
Share by: