Most people have probably heard a high-pitched whining noise in their ears at least once. It comes and then it goes, but it’s temporary. However, for some people, that ringing, hissing, whistling, buzzing, or clicking sound is constant. That noise that isn’t a noise is called tinnitus, and it’s generally caused by damage to the auditory system.

In this episode of the ICU ("I See You") podcast, the discussion explores the connection between tinnitus and hearing loss, common concerns, and possible treatments and coping strategies. Hosts Cynthia Ryan (VeDA Executive Director) and Kimberly Warner (Unfixed Media Founder & Director) are joined by Dr. Christina Shields, AuD, and Steve Schwier, who shares his personal experience with tinnitus resulting from Meniere's disease. Steve vividly describes the impact of tinnitus on his daily life and the disorienting effect it has. Dr. Shields explains the nature of tinnitus.

This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media.

About the Guests:

Diagnosed with Meniere’s Disease in 2013, Steve Schwier had been able to do little at that time but stay on his couch and manage his symptoms. But in 2020, Steve decided to get up and ride his bike across America to be the voice of a suffering, silent minority and bring awareness to Meniere’s Disease. His difficult and grueling ride is chronicled in his memoir, “On the Vertigo: One Sick Man’s Journey to Make a Difference.” Despite the horrendous nature of Meniere’s disease, Steve tells his story with humor, grace, and heartfelt reflection.

Dr. Christina Shields, AuD is an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences at the University of Maryland in College Park. She received a bachelor's degree in Hearing and Speech Sciences, as well as her Clinical Doctorate in Audiology from the University of Maryland. She completed her clinical fourth year placement at the University of Maryland Medical Center in 2013. Her clinical background includes diagnostic audiometric testing, amplification for adult patients, vestibular assessment, and tinnitus, hyperacusis evaluation and management. She currently teaches undergraduate hearing and speech courses and supervises graduate students in the clinic. 

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If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/

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