Unexplainable The Sound Barrier #2: The noise that isn't there
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Nov 5, 2025 Stéphane Maison, director of the tinnitus clinic at Mass Eye and Ear, and Dan Polley, tinnitus researcher and advocate, explore the mysterious world of tinnitus—a phantom noise affecting 15% of adults. They discuss how hidden hearing loss triggers these sounds in the brain and the common misconception that there's nothing that can be done about it. Stéphane shares innovative diagnostic techniques, while Dan emphasizes the need for more research funding. The conversation sheds light on coping strategies and potential treatments to improve the quality of life for those affected.
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Young Adult's Hidden Tinnitus Story
- Kelly began hearing persistent high-pitched ringing in her ears shortly after her 25th birthday and first thought it was pipes.
- She got multiple tests showing almost-normal hearing but the sound continued and worsened over months, isolating her socially.
Tinnitus As Brain Compensation
- Hearing damage reduces input to specific auditory pathways, and the brain compensates by turning up central activity.
- That compensatory hyperactivity in the brain can create the perception of sound that isn't there.
Why Hearing Tests Miss Damage
- Standard hearing tests only measure sensitivity to soft sounds and miss fibers that code loud sounds.
- Damage to loud-sound fibers can be hidden and explain normal test results despite real hearing problems.