More than 50 million people in the United States suffer from tinnitus, according to the American Tinnitus Association (ATA). Usually brought on by exposure to loud noise, the problem is especially significant in the military, with more than 34 percent of returning veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan being diagnosed the condition.

When people are first diagnosed with tinnitus, they may experience frustration, stress and confusion.

However, "there is real hope for tinnitus sufferers today, with greater understanding of the condition, more audiologists with knowledge, and more effective treatments than ever before," said Curtis Amann, of Neuromonics Inc.

He offered the following suggestions to individuals who have been diagnosed with tinnitus or who think they may have the condition:

• Take time to review and evaluate. Tinnitus is usually not a sign of a serious, ongoing medical condition, but it is important to visit an audiologist or ENT interested and experienced in tinnitus treatment to rule out possible causes that may benefit from prescribed medication or surgery.
• Don't give up. More research has been conducted over the last 10 years than at any other time in an effort to provide hope and answers to people with tinnitus. People no longer "just have to learn to live with it." Seek out a qualified medical professional who can review specific needs and help find the best solution available.
• Protect yourself from further auditory damage by avoiding loud places and by using earplugs when noise levels exceed safe listening levels.
• Recognize that tinnitus is a multi-pronged condition. It consists of an audiological component, a neurological component and an emotional component. All three need to be addressed for treatment to be effective. Any treatment approach should address the problem from all sides.
• Create an enriching sound environment. People with tinnitus can help take the focus off their tinnitus perception by filling the environment with pleasant and relaxing sounds. Some people obtain a great deal of relief by having a radio on in the background at home or work to fill quiet moments that may reveal tinnitus sounds. Others find relaxing sounds, such as an ocean or waterfall, to be relaxing. "It is very important to find just what sound sources help the most," Amann said, but "remember that those sources may only function as temporary relief - a more formal treatment approach is often needed for lasting results."
• Understand the "triangle of treatment." For most patients to achieve significant positive changes, treatment is most successful when it involves some type of ear-level intervention or sound therapy, a professional who understands the patient and is willing and able to work with him or her, and a patient who wants to get better and is willing to do his or her part in the process.
• Be patient. Because tinnitus affects people in different degrees and ways and because each person reacts differently to treatment, it is important to exercise patience. Treatments may take a few weeks or a few months to have a positive effect. Individuals can keep an open dialog with their health care professional to make sure they are receiving the best treatments for them.
• Develop a support system. Educate your family, friends and co-workers about the condition, explaining any known triggers or situations that are especially difficult. Organizations such as ATA offer advice and information on support groups for compassion, companionship and coping strategies. Some companies that provide effective tinnitus treatments have online blogs or social networking opportunities to share ideas and input.