TMS for tinnitus and hallucinations Houston, TX

TMS for Tinnitus and Hallucinations in Houston, TX

Tinnitus, often called “ringing in the ears,” involves hearing sounds that originate inside the head, while hallucinations involve seeing, hearing, touching, or smelling things that are not real. Both can stem from issues in the brain. At Houston West TMS, board-certified psychiatrist and Brainsway Deep TMS specialist Dr. William K. Drell offers noninvasive magnetic therapy for these conditions. Please note that TMS is not FDA approved for tinnitus or hallucinations; it is an off-label option that is not currently covered by insurance.

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Tinnitus is the perception of noise in your head that others cannot hear. It can take the form of ringing, buzzing, roaring, hissing, or humming, and it is distinct from the auditory hallucinations experienced by patients with schizophrenia or Parkinson’s disease. Tinnitus can be highly distressing, leading to anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties, and trouble functioning at home or work.

What causes tinnitus?

Because tinnitus is often triggered by noise, it is the most common service-connected disability among U.S. veterans. It can also be caused by hearing loss, medication, viral infections, vascular problems, or head trauma. In many cases, the exact cause is unknown, which can make treatment challenging.

How is tinnitus treated?

Tinnitus is usually first addressed by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, who may order hearing tests and recommend hearing aids, white noise machines, or apps to mask the sound. Other treatments depend on the underlying cause, and sometimes simply removing earwax can help. When conventional approaches fall short, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation has been shown to be effective in reducing tinnitus.

What is Brainsway Deep TMS therapy for tinnitus?

Deep TMS applies a strong magnetic field near the surface of the scalp, delivering brief pulses that stimulate the brain and its network of neurons. TMS has been studied for decades and may offer hope for some of the 45 to 50 million Americans living with tinnitus. Research has shown that TMS can alleviate tinnitus in one third to one half of patients. A 2015 study at Oregon Health and Science University found that 18 of 32 patients treated with TMS targeting the auditory cortex experienced relief lasting at least six months. The procedure is noninvasive with minimal side effects and may also help ease the depression and anxiety that often accompany tinnitus.

What causes hallucinations?

Hallucinations often signal a problem with brain function. Causes include schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease, dementia (especially Alzheimer’s disease), brain tumors, and migraines. Auditory hallucinations may also occur with bipolar disorder, psychosis, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and drug use.

How are hallucinations treated?

Your psychiatrist will work to determine the cause of your hallucinations, which may involve imaging such as an MRI or an electroencephalogram. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medication, antiseizure drugs, surgery or radiation for a tumor, and talk therapy. For hallucinations associated with schizophrenia, Deep TMS may be a helpful complement to medication. While research is still emerging, some studies suggest TMS can reduce hallucinations and may also help with the negative symptoms of schizophrenia, such as low motivation, low energy, and social withdrawal, without the side effects often caused by medication.

To learn more about how the technology works, visit our Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Brainsway Deep TMS pages, or explore related treatments such as TMS for Depression and TMS for Anxiety.

If you or a loved one are experiencing tinnitus or hallucinations despite appropriate treatment, contact Houston West TMS. Call (713) 464-4455 or request an appointment online today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can TMS treat tinnitus?

Research has shown that TMS can alleviate tinnitus in one third to one half of patients by stimulating the auditory regions of the brain. It is a noninvasive option with minimal side effects that may also ease the anxiety and depression that often accompany tinnitus.

Is TMS for tinnitus or hallucinations FDA approved?

No. TMS is not FDA approved for tinnitus or hallucinations and is considered off-label. As a result, it is not currently covered by insurance. Dr. Drell can discuss self-pay options during your consultation.

What causes hallucinations?

Hallucinations can result from schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, brain tumors, migraines, and other conditions such as bipolar disorder, PTSD, and drug use. Identifying the cause is essential to determining the right treatment.

Can Deep TMS help with schizophrenia symptoms?

Some research suggests Deep TMS may reduce hallucinations and help with the negative symptoms of schizophrenia, such as low motivation and social withdrawal. It is used as a complement to ongoing psychiatric care, not a replacement.

Is TMS for tinnitus safe?

Yes. The procedure is noninvasive and has minimal side effects, the most common being a mild headache or scalp discomfort. It does not require anesthesia, and patients remain awake throughout.

How do I schedule a TMS consultation for tinnitus or hallucinations?

You can schedule a consultation by calling (713) 464-4455 or requesting an appointment online. Dr. Drell will evaluate your symptoms and determine whether Deep TMS may be an appropriate option.