Tinnitus and Hyperacusis: Facts, Theories, and Clinical Implications

Tinnitus and Hyperacusis: Facts, Theories, and Clinical Implications provides an overview of this burgeoning field, covering the underlying mechanisms and potential treatments for these disorders. It discusses neurotransmitters, neuromodulators, immediate early genes, and a dozen models aimed at explaining tinnitus and hyperacusis. Potential treatments, from behavioral to non-invasive neuromodulation, are also discussed.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 332 pages
Publication date: 17 March 2022
Publisher: Elsevier Science & Technology

Tinnitus and Hyperacusis: Facts, Theories, and Clinical Implications delves into the emerging field of these disorders, offering an overview of their underlying mechanisms and potential treatments. The book begins by providing an overview of the etiology and genetics behind tinnitus and hyperacusis. The author then presents two parallel neural pathways underlying these conditions, providing a foundation for connecting animal to human research. Neurotransmitters, neuromodulators, and immediate early genes are explored in detail, alongside a comprehensive comparison of approximately a dozen models aimed at explaining tinnitus and hyperacusis, including the neurophysiological model, the neural synchrony model, and the cortical map reorganization and filling-in model. Potential treatments of tinnitus and hyperacusis, ranging from behavioral interventions to non-invasive neuromodulation, are also discussed. This book is designed for clinical neuroscientists, audiologists, neuro-otologists, neurologists, and clinical psychologists.

Introduction:
Tinnitus and hyperacusis are conditions that affect a significant portion of the population, causing significant distress and impairment. Despite the prevalence of these disorders, there is still a lack of comprehensive understanding of their underlying mechanisms and effective treatments. This book aims to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge in these fields, covering the facts, theories, and clinical implications of tinnitus and hyperacusis.

Etiology and Genetics:
The etiology of tinnitus and hyperacusis is complex and multifactorial, involving a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Research has shown that these disorders are influenced by a wide range of genes, including those involved in hearing, balance, and sensory processing. Additionally, exposure to loud noise, certain medications, and certain medical conditions can contribute to the development of tinnitus and hyperacusis.

Neural Pathways:
Two parallel neural pathways have been proposed to underlie tinnitus and hyperacusis. The first pathway involves the auditory system, specifically the cochlea and the auditory nerve. The second pathway involves the brain, specifically the auditory cortex and other regions involved in sensory processing. The author suggests that these pathways may interact and contribute to the development and maintenance of tinnitus and hyperacusis.

Neurotransmitters and Neuromodulators:
Neurotransmitters and neuromodulators play a crucial role in the development and regulation of tinnitus and hyperacusis. Several neurotransmitters, including glutamate, GABA, and serotonin, have been implicated in these disorders. Additionally, neuromodulators, such as adenosine and dopamine, have been shown to modulate the activity of neurons in the auditory system.

Models of Tinnitus and Hyperacusis:
Several models have been proposed to explain tinnitus and hyperacusis. The neurophysiological model suggests that tinnitus is caused by abnormal neural activity in the auditory system, while the neural synchrony model proposes that tinnitus is caused by abnormal synchronization of neural activity in the auditory system. The cortical map reorganization and filling-in model suggests that tinnitus is caused by the reorganization of cortical maps in the brain.

Potential Treatments:
Tinnitus and hyperacusis can be treated using a variety of approaches, including behavioral interventions, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and non-invasive neuromodulation techniques. Behavioral interventions, such as sound therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy, can help individuals manage the symptoms of tinnitus and hyperacusis. Non-invasive neuromodulation techniques, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), can modulate the activity of neurons in the brain and reduce the symptoms of tinnitus and hyperacusis.

Conclusion:
Tinnitus and hyperacusis are complex disorders that require a comprehensive understanding of their underlying mechanisms and effective treatments. This book provides an overview of the current state of knowledge in these fields, covering the etiology and genetics, neural pathways, neurotransmitters and neuromodulators, models of tinnitus and hyperacusis, and potential treatments. By understanding the underlying mechanisms of these disorders, researchers and clinicians can develop new and more effective treatments to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by tinnitus and hyperacusis.

Weight: 450g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780323919128