Tinnitus, the persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears, is more than just an annoyance – it can significantly disrupt one’s daily life and overall well-being. The constant noise can interfere with sleep, concentration, and even social interactions, taking a toll on one’s quality of life.
While tinnitus is a complex issue with no one-size-fits-all solution, various tools and techniques are available to help manage the symptoms. One such approach is Lenire, a device developed by Neuromod, an Irish medical technology company. In this article, we’ll explore how Lenire works, its potential benefits, and how you can determine if it’s the right option for you.
Lenire received approval from the European Union’s Medical Device Evaluation Group in 2019 and has since gained recognition as a treatment option for mild to moderate tinnitus
The Neuromod Approach: A Dual Stimulation Technique
Lenire received approval from the European Union’s Medical Device Evaluation Group in 2019 and has since gained recognition as a treatment option for mild to moderate tinnitus. The device utilises a unique bimodal neural stimulation technique, combining auditory and tongue stimulation to influence the nervous system’s activity and potentially impact tinnitus perception.
The premise behind this approach is that the head, neck, and auditory pathways are interconnected with structures deep within the brain’s auditory center. By simultaneously stimulating these pathways through sound therapy and tongue stimulation, Lenire aims to modulate the nervous system’s response to tinnitus sounds.
During treatment sessions lasting 30 to 60 minutes daily for 12 weeks, users listen to auditory stimuli while placing a tongue device in their mouth. The simultaneous stimulation of the auditory and trigeminal nerves (via the tongue) is believed to reinforce changes in the nervous system, potentially reducing the awareness of tinnitus symptoms.
The Science Behind Bimodal Neural Stimulation
The concept of bimodal neural stimulation is based on the principle of neuroplasticity, which refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize and adapt its neural pathways in response to various stimuli. By pairing two different types of stimulation (acoustic and electric), Lenire aims to reinforce changes in the nervous system’s response to tinnitus perception.
This approach is similar to techniques used in pain management, where electrical stimulation is delivered directly to pain neurons in the spinal cord. However, for tinnitus, the neural pathways involved are more dispersed throughout the brain, necessitating a dual stimulation approach.
The tongue is chosen as the site for electrical stimulation due to its dense innervation, allowing a small surface area to stimulate numerous nerve endings. By stimulating the trigeminal nerve via the tongue, the low-level electrical stimulus impacts a nerve that intersects with head, neck, and auditory pathways, potentially influencing the auditory center’s activity.
Efficacy and Considerations
While the data from clinical trials suggests promising results, with 95% of participants reporting a reduction in tinnitus symptoms and 85% recommending the treatment, it’s essential to approach this option with a critical eye. Tinnitus is a subjective experience, and individual responses may vary.
It’s crucial to understand that Lenire does not cure tinnitus but aims to reduce the awareness of symptoms by modulating the nervous system’s response to tinnitus sounds. This treatment may be most beneficial for individuals with mild to moderate tinnitus, but it is not a universal solution.
Cost and Availability
Lenire by Neuromod is a prescription device that can be ordered through a healthcare provider. The device itself costs around $3,000, and follow-up treatments may incur additional costs. However, it’s important to note that health insurance typically does not cover this treatment, making it an out-of-pocket expense.
The availability of Lenire may also be limited, as it received FDA approval in the United States in March 2023 and is currently available only in select locations.
Exploring Your Options
If you’re considering Lenire as a potential treatment option for your tinnitus, it’s crucial to consult with an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist or an audiologist who specializes in tinnitus management. They can provide professional advice on whether this approach is suitable for your specific condition and circumstances.
Additionally, Neuromod offers a comprehensive website with detailed information about their products and how they work, which can help you make an informed decision.
It’s important to remember that tinnitus management is highly individualized, and no single solution works for everyone. While Lenire may be a viable option for some, others may find relief through lifestyle modifications, hearing aids, masking devices, or cognitive-behavioral therapy.
The goal is to find a solution that best fits your needs and provides the most effective tinnitus management. With a variety of options available today, working closely with your healthcare provider can help you develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses your unique circumstances and improves your overall quality of life.
Leave a Comment