Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) for Tinnitus — Long-Lasting Everyday Home-Practiced Experiences

[lymebite]

I am worried those are not safe, but maybe they are; I don't know.

Are there any other reputable lasers, preferably models that have been used in clinical trials?

Tinnitool isn't selling the 5 mW version anymore.

I am not aware of any that are only 5 mW other than the new low-priced USB-powered ones.

To verify the specifications, you can buy equipment that tests the output of the low-priced USB laser devices (and any other laser devices). This is one place that sells laser power meters:

https://www.laserbeelpm.com/products-1.html

 

[StoneInFocus]

NCBI - WWW Error Blocked Diagnostic

 

[mike079]

I see on the Konftec site that there's a laser with infrared light, another with red light, and a package that includes both. Which one are people here using?

 

[mike079]

I decided to order the emLas-520AC and will see how it goes. I will update here if I have good results.

 

[HighleyTall]

NCBI - WWW Error Blocked Diagnostic

They were using WellsCare lasers.

Maybe I should strap an IASO Ultra in the neck. If it doesn't work, I saved $4000 compared to Lenire.

 

[SoundB0und]

I see on the Konftec site that there's a laser with infrared light, another with red light, and a package that includes both. Which one are people here using?

I have the emLas-520BCB. Actually, I own two of the same model. The first one began to break down after many years of use, so I purchased a replacement. The last "B" in the model name indicates it has a black controller, which, along with the mostly black wires and adapter, gives it a more professional look.

From what I recall, the 808nm wavelength has been more thoroughly studied for tinnitus than the 780nm. I haven't tried the 780nm myself, so I can't say for sure how it would work or how it might have worked for me. However, I would definitely recommend including the red, 660nm light.

Good luck!

 

[mike079]

I ordered the 780nm model with the 660nm red light included. Thanks for the tip! I just emailed them to ask if I can pay the extra $60 to switch to the 808nm version.

 

[K89]

@SoundB0und, you mentioned that you used the laser after experiencing a spike or new trauma, if I remember correctly. Did your tinnitus ever get significantly worse for a few days after using the laser, before eventually improving?

I've been doing clinic sessions with Lumomed, and I have to say my ringing has never been worse. They say this isn't necessarily a bad reaction, but it's hard to tell, as I've been dealing with several days of extremely intense ringing—enough to keep me from sleeping. I'm really not sure what to make of it.

I'm hoping that after a break, things will level out.

 

[SoundB0und]

Did your tinnitus ever get significantly worse for a few days after using the laser, before eventually improving?

Yes. Looking back, it's hard to say exactly how much it spiked. I think I partially attributed my poor sleep to the hot summer nights around the time I started the laser therapy.

When I first experienced a major tinnitus spike, I couldn't sleep at all and was up for three nights straight, relying on a lot of sleep meds. So, this wasn't an entirely new experience for me.

Being exactly three months in and having been relatively careful with sound exposure might have contributed to the spike being milder. It's possible that my tinnitus was already beginning to settle naturally, and even though I triggered a temporary spike with the laser, that timing might have acted as a buffer.

In all honesty, I can't be certain, as it was a while ago. At that point, quitting the laser wasn't really an option in my mind; I was more afraid it wouldn't work, which would have meant losing my last hope. It was a do or die situation.

I protected my hearing carefully, which seemed necessary for healing. I wasn't in complete silence but stayed indoors almost 24/7, taking no risks unless absolutely necessary. Fortunately, I didn't have many real-life responsibilities at the time.

It didn't improve in just a few days, though; it took weeks or even a month, and significant improvements took several months. When I realized I could tolerate it and that it wouldn't be unbearable, I just kept going and didn't look back.

Doesn't Lumomed offer both clinical laser therapy and home lasers? You're referring to the home laser, right? I've never tried a clinical laser. From what I've read on the forum, and just logically, it seems that the initial spike from clinical lasers is generally much more intense.

Good luck.

 

[mike079]

I received the 606nm and 808nm lasers today and tested each for 10 minutes. I plan to do this for a few days, then take a break before following the full protocol from the website.

How much time are people here using per session?

 

[Dizzyhead888]

I am experiencing serious brain fog after just a few minutes of LLLT (5 mW, 650 nm).

I am also noticing a 10% worsening in my tinnitus, though it generally settles back to baseline over time.

Does anyone have any insights into this?

 

[Nick47]

I am experiencing serious brain fog after just a few minutes of LLLT (5 mW, 650 nm).

I am also noticing a 10% worsening in my tinnitus, though it generally settles back to baseline over time.

Does anyone have any insights into this?

@Dizzyhead888, which study inspired you to try this treatment? The ones I have read are poorly designed, highly biased, and have only short-term follow-ups. This treatment has been around for years, yet it seems to provide little benefit for most people.

 

[Dizzyhead888]

@Dizzyhead888, which study inspired you to try this treatment? The ones I have read are poorly designed, highly biased, and have only short-term follow-ups. This treatment has been around for years, yet it seems to provide little benefit for most people.

In terms of papers and in conclusion, the research on LLLT for tinnitus has produced mixed results. Some studies show positive outcomes, while others report no improvement. In all the papers I've reviewed, the power used was 5mW, which is considered very low.

Beyond the research, there are numerous anecdotes about using higher power levels, such as 50mW. For example, devices like those from Konftec and the experiences shared by individuals like @SoundB0und and Dr. Wilden are often mentioned. I've come across these accounts on forums and in Facebook groups.

LLLT remains an inconclusive treatment, but like most tinnitus therapies, you won't know if it works for you unless you try. It is, however, proven effective for various other conditions and has a strong safety profile.

What surprises me is that I'm experiencing brain fog from just 5mW! I haven't seen anyone else report this side effect in their experiences or in any of the studies.

This is quite frustrating, as I had planned to try this treatment gradually over an extended period.

 

[artlite]

Do you guys know where I could buy a used laser so I don't need to pay as much?

 

[lymebite]

Do you guys know where I could buy a used laser so I don't need to pay as much?

@DebInAustralia mentioned a while ago that she was selling one. I'm not sure if it's still available, but if it is, it might be a good option.

 

[Nick47]

Do you guys know where I could buy a used laser so I don't need to pay as much?

@artlite, the chance of it being effective is very very small. Some people felt worse, but in all honesty they do nothing for most people. Money wasted that could better be used?

 

[HighleyTall]

As usual, @Nick47 is correct.

 

[mike079]

For those who have the laser and are using it, could you share your protocol?

The image below is from the Konftec website. I've started with 15 minutes of red light and 15 minutes of infrared light per day for 10 days. I'm curious to know what others are doing.

 

[lymebite]

Do you guys know where I could buy a used laser so I don't need to pay as much?

There is a used Konftec posted for sale on eBay right now.

 

[AnonymousMouse]

I'm currently in the acute phase after suffering acoustic trauma nearly two weeks ago. I've seen three doctors and an audiologist, all of whom said there's nothing they can do and that my hearing results are fine for my age. However, I'm experiencing ear pain, loud tinnitus, and, more recently, the onset of vertigo. You can read more about my story under my profile if you're curious.

Is it possible that LLLT could help? Unfortunately, I don't have a copy of my audiology report, so I'm not sure if they tested beyond 8 kHz.

I'm considering the Dr. Wilden device since it seems easier to use and more accurate, but it's very expensive. Because of this, I'm leaning toward Konftec instead.

For what it's worth, I believe my tinnitus is somewhere around 12–13 kHz. It's challenging to pinpoint the exact frequency because when I play matching sounds, the tinnitus stops for a few seconds.

 

[Nick47]

it possible that LLLT could help? Unfortunately, I don't have a copy of my audiology report, so I'm not sure if they tested beyond 8 kHz.

It's extremely unlikely that it will help. The studies conducted so far have been of low quality and carry a high risk of bias. If it were likely to be effective, it would already be widely available.

 

[AnonymousMouse]

It's extremely unlikely that it will help. The studies conducted so far have been of low quality and carry a high risk of bias. If it were likely to be effective, it would already be widely available.

But is there a chance? I've read about the success stories from people it has worked for. My tinnitus is truly life-altering, and I'm carrying a heavy load of guilt, regret, depression, and an inability to sleep.

Yesterday, I had to wear noise-canceling earbuds all day because my neighbors were blasting music. Now, my tinnitus is extremely loud. Even the tonal sounds that usually help aren't providing much relief. This is the worst it's been since I developed this condition.

 

[Nick47]

But is there a chance?

There's always a chance, however small, that a rocket could hit your house tonight. Similarly, the few success stories shared here are, in my opinion, likely due to a placebo effect or simply the passage of time.

That said, there are a couple of medication combinations you might want to explore. Check out the NeuroMed thread and Dr. Dirk De Ridder's protocol. Additionally, some long-term members here follow the Abraham Shulman protocol. Take a look at the relevant threads and feel free to ask questions if you need clarification.

I understand how difficult this can be.

 

[AnonymousMouse]

There's always a chance, however small, that a rocket could hit your house tonight. Similarly, the few success stories shared here are, in my opinion, likely due to a placebo effect or simply the passage of time.

That said, there are a couple of medication combinations you might want to explore. Check out the NeuroMed thread and Dr. Dirk De Ridder's protocol. Additionally, some long-term members here follow the Abraham Shulman protocol. Take a look at the relevant threads and feel free to ask questions if you need clarification.

I understand how difficult this can be.

I'm planning to talk to my doctor about several potential medications that people on this forum have reported success with, including LDN.

However, she won't prescribe benzodiazepines, so the Abraham Shulman protocol isn't an option for me. I do have a prescription for Ativan, but it's for 10 tablets of 1 mg each, and I use them very sparingly—this amount lasts me over a year.

 

[zushark]

What brand of LLLT does anyone recommend? Also, what is the price?

Thanks for your help!

 

[mikeh]

I'm not sure if LLLT works or not, but how many statistics claim that microsuction wax removal is completely safe? Yet, there are dozens of horror stories about it causing ear injuries and tinnitus. If LLLT helps even that many people, it's good enough for me.

 

[Joeseph Stope]

But is there a chance? I've read about the success stories from people it has worked for. My tinnitus is truly life-altering, and I'm carrying a heavy load of guilt, regret, depression, and an inability to sleep.

Yesterday, I had to wear noise-canceling earbuds all day because my neighbors were blasting music. Now, my tinnitus is extremely loud. Even the tonal sounds that usually help aren't providing much relief. This is the worst it's been since I developed this condition.

My sympathies for what you are going through. I don't have a medical or audiological background, other than having experienced the same challenges you're facing. Please take the following suggestions with caution, or feel free to disregard them entirely:

a) Avoid loud noise as much as possible—it's certainly a trigger for my tinnitus. Consider taking a break from noisy neighbors or even finding a quieter place to live. At the same time, try not to expose yourself to complete silence. At night, I use a sound machine, and I keep a radio handy to switch on if needed.

b) Certain foods and drinks can cause temporary tinnitus spikes for some people. For instance, coffee and alcohol are common triggers. In my case, it's salicylates—found in herbs like basil, thyme, rosemary, and even aspirin. Imagine the tragedy of not being able to enjoy a slice of pizza! Because of this, I avoid bars and concerts.

c) When I catch the flu, have a head cold, or get a headache, my tinnitus tends to spike. Getting a good night's sleep really helps, although it's not always easy to achieve.

In your case, I'd encourage optimism since your tinnitus is still in the acute phase. Most people manage to adapt within a year or two, eventually finding that it fades into the background and becomes less significant.

Reflecting on my own experience, I wish a group like this had been available when I was going through the acute phase.

I hope this helps!

 

[HighleyTall]

Here is the improved version of your text with better grammar, punctuation, readability, and paragraph structure:

You could build your own focusable laser device (808nm, 100mW x2) for probably less than $50.

Laser tips: https://www.ebay.com/itm/134796810549

You can order ear tips from Konftec.

All you need is a power supply and a timer (e.g., based on the IC555). With a 3D printer, you could create custom earplugs to hold the ear tips while keeping them focusable. You could also print a case for the battery and electronics.

I might give this a try—it seems like a fun project. Maybe it could help with my burning ears. Every day, I soak my ears in a very hot bath, which gives me some relief.

GROK says YES

Basic Components for a DIY LLLT Device

1. Laser Diodes (810 nm, 100 mW):
   • Why 810 nm?: This wavelength in the near-infrared range penetrates tissue well (up to 2–3 cm through skin and bone), making it suitable for reaching the inner ear or cochlear nerve area, as noted in LLLT studies (e.g., Hamblin, 2016).
   • 100 mW Power: This is a common output for LLLT, delivering enough energy (e.g., 4–10 J/cm² over minutes) without causing thermal damage. Two diodes could double the coverage or intensity, depending on setup.
   • Source: You can buy 810 nm, 100 mW laser diodes from suppliers like Thorlabs, DigiKey, or eBay (e.g., industrial-grade diodes). Expect $10–$50 each, depending on quality.
2. Power Supply:
   • Voltage/Current: Laser diodes typically require 1.8–2.5 V and 100–200 mA, depending on the model. A 3V battery (e.g., CR2032 coin cell) or a 5V USB power bank could work, but you'll need to regulate current precisely.
   • Options: A simple AA battery pack (e.g., 2×1.5V = 3V) with a resistor might suffice for basic testing, but a proper driver is better (see below).
3. Electronic Driver:
   • Do You Need One?: Yes, for safety and consistency. Laser diodes are sensitive to overcurrent and voltage spikes, which can burn them out instantly. A basic resistor can limit current, but a dedicated driver circuit ensures stable output, especially with a duty cycle.
   • Function: Regulates current (e.g., 150 mA for a 100 mW diode) and can include a timer or pulse-width modulation (PWM) for the 45s on/15s off cycle.
   • DIY Option: A cheap laser diode driver module (e.g., $5–$15 on Amazon or eBay) or an Arduino microcontroller with a transistor can handle this.
4. Duty Cycle (45s On, 15s Off):
   • "45 seconds on, 15 seconds off" in a 1-minute cycle means the laser is active 75% of the time (45/60 seconds). This is a 75% duty cycle, common in LLLT to prevent tissue overheating and allow cellular recovery during off periods.
   • Implementation: You'll need a timer circuit (e.g., a 555 timer IC, ~$1) or a microcontroller (e.g., Arduino Nano, ~$5) to switch the diodes on/off automatically. Manual toggling is impractical.
5. Optics and Housing:
   • Focusing: Raw diodes emit a divergent beam; you might add a collimating lens (e.g., $2–$5) to focus light into the ear canal or mastoid area.
   • Housing: A 3D-printed or handheld case (e.g., plastic project box) to hold diodes, align them toward the target, and protect your eyes/hands. Earbud-style tips could position them in the ear canal.
6. Switch and Wiring:
   • Basic toggle switch ($1) to turn the device on/off.
   • Wires, solder, and a breadboard or PCB for assembly.

Assembly Breakdown
Here's a minimal setup:

• Diodes: 2× 810 nm, 100 mW laser diodes.
• Power: 3V battery pack (2× AA) or 5V USB with a regulator.
• Driver: Simple driver module or 555 timer circuit for 45s/15s pulsing.
• Resistor: If skipping a driver initially, calculate resistance (e.g., for 3V supply, 150 mA: R = (3V - 2V diode voltage) / 0.15A ≈ 6.7Ω, use 10Ω for safety).
• Housing: Small plastic case with diodes angled toward the ear.
• Cost: ~$20–$50 total, depending on sourcing.

Step-by-Step Example

1. Test Diodes: Wire one diode with a 10Ω resistor to a 3V battery. It should light up (use caution—don't look directly at it). Measure current with a multimeter to confirm ~100–150 mA.
2. Add Duty Cycle: Use a 555 timer IC in astable mode (online calculators can set 45s on/15s off with appropriate resistors/capacitors, e.g., R1=10kΩ, R2=33kΩ, C=1000µF). Connect the timer output to a transistor (e.g., 2N2222) that switches the diodes.
3. Mount Diodes: Fix them in a holder (e.g., hot-glued into an earbud shell) aimed at the ear canal or mastoid.
4. Power Up: Connect to a battery or USB supply and test.

Do You Need an Electronic Driver?

• Without Driver: A resistor and battery can work temporarily but risks inconsistent power (battery drain alters output) and diode damage from surges. Duty cycle control is manual or absent.
• With Driver: Strongly recommended. A driver ensures steady 100 mW output, protects the diodes, and simplifies adding the 45s/15s cycle via PWM or a timer. Pre-made modules are cheap and safer than designing from scratch unless you're experienced with electronics.

Safety and Practical Notes

• Eye Safety: 810 nm is invisible; never look at the beam or point it at others. Wear IR-protective goggles during testing.
• Dosage: LLLT typically delivers 4–10 J/cm² per session. For 100 mW (0.1 W), 40–100 seconds per spot achieves this (Energy = Power × Time). Two diodes at 200 mW total halve the time or double the area. Overdoing it risks no extra benefit or mild heating.
• Ear Targeting: Position diodes in the ear canal (like earbuds) or over the mastoid bone behind the ear. Exact cochlear nerve targeting is imprecise due to bone scattering light.
• Regulation: DIY medical devices skirt legal gray areas; this is for experimentation, not clinical use without approval.

If built correctly (810 nm, 100 mW, pulsed), it mimics commercial LLLT devices used in tinnitus trials (e.g., Teggi et al., 2009). It might reduce inflammation indirectly by affecting the cochlea or nearby tissues, though penetrating to the cochlear nerve through bone is less certain. Efficacy depends on inflammation's role in your case and early application, as with Pulec's barotrauma scenario.

Conclusion

Yes, a basic LLLT device with 2× 810 nm, 100 mW diodes, a power supply (e.g., 3V–5V), and a timer for a 45s on/15s off duty cycle is doable for under $50 with beginner electronics skills. An electronic driver isn't strictly necessary but highly advisable for safety and precision—use a cheap module or Arduino for pulsing. It's a simple build in theory, but safety (eyes, dosage) and alignment matter. It could theoretically reduce cochlear nerve inflammation based on LLLT principles, but it's a DIY experiment, not a guaranteed fix. Start small, test safely, and consult a pro if adapting for real use.

Disclaimer: Grok is not a doctor or engineer; consult experts. Don't share identifying info.

 

[JSindelin7]

I'm a new member here. I've been lurking for a few months. I came down with loud tinnitus, strong hyperacusis, ear fullness, and pressure in the latter part of January 2024. I've been taking it easy, meaning no loud sound exposure; however, I've not been overprotective with my ears and go to the grocery store, doctor's appointments, and Pilates with my wife. All three symptoms have gotten better since early February, but I am intrigued by the LLLT products.

I have mild to mild-moderate hearing loss from 4 kHz to 8 kHz, and then my hearing goes back up. I believe they say it's "notched." My hearing issues are related to loud noise exposure. I got COVID-19 in the latter part of January 2024, when these three symptoms started.

After reading through a few LLLT threads, I ordered a Konftec emLas-520BC with the red 660 & IR 808 set. It sat on my counter for over a week, but I just recently decided to give it a try. I'm following a similar approach to @SoundB0und by starting off slow, so here's my progress so far.

TREATMENT 1:
4 minutes using the red 660 laser only.

• TINNITUS: Very soon after the session, I noticed my tinnitus tone going to a higher pitch than normal—a little louder but higher pitch than my normal lower tone.
• HYPERACUSIS: Not much of a noticeable difference, good or bad.
• EAR FULLNESS/PRESSURE: I noticed an improvement in lower ear fullness/pressure after this first session in the evening.

DAY OFF:
No treatment.

TREATMENT 2:
4 minutes using the red 660 laser only.

• TINNITUS: The tinnitus tone is still at a higher pitch than normal. It is a little louder but with a higher pitch than my normal lower tone.
• HYPERACUSIS: Hyperacusis came back today. Although moderate, this is a little concerning.
• EAR FULLNESS/PRESSURE: I noticed an immediate improvement in lower ear fullness/pressure, and it felt great.

DAY OFF:
No treatment.

TREATMENT 3:
4 minutes using the red 660 laser only.

• TINNITUS: The tinnitus tone is still at a higher pitch than normal, and it became louder after treatment 3, which is not welcome.
• HYPERACUSIS: Hyperacusis is moderate, but I haven't heard it like this since late March, so again, it's a little concerning.
• EAR FULLNESS/PRESSURE: More improvement in lower ear fullness/pressure is a relief!

DAY OFF:
No treatment.

I decided not to conduct Treatment 4 as I have some concerns about the volume of the tinnitus being still higher than before. Hyperacusis is present but not nearly as bad as back in February-March. Ear fullness/pressure is gone, which feels really good. I'll take a few more days off and reevaluate.

It's now been four days off since the last of 3x 4-minute 660 red laser treatments, with one day off between treatments:

• TINNITUS: The bad news is that the volume of my tinnitus is still louder than before I started, so I'm hoping it recedes to what it was before the first laser treatment. It's still a higher pitch than the old normal lower tone. Not freaking out but concerned.
• HYPERACUSIS: It's about the same, maybe slightly better, since I started LLLT, so it's not getting any worse.
• EAR FULLNESS/PRESSURE: Today, the ear pressure/fullness came back, and it's not comfortable. Just 3x 4-minute treatments of 660 red (no IR) really reduced the pressure, fullness, and inflammation in my ears, which was a big relief.

I'm in a quandary now. I would like to reduce the ear pressure/fullness, but I'm concerned about the higher tinnitus volume and the uptick in hyperacusis. I don't want to exacerbate those two symptoms any further.

Should I stop now altogether or wait another week/month and try just a 1-2 minute session, as my ears seem sensitive to LLLT?

I'm really stumped, as I've heard multiple users say their tinnitus always spiked, especially in the beginning, and then receded back down, but again, I'm concerned.

@10Kcd, @Jan64, @SoundB0und, @Anima, I would appreciate any replies!

@Yeshua7 & @SoundB0und, did the intensity of your tinnitus ever come back down after the initial laser treatments? I have just had the same experience as you. I am using the Tinnitool 660 nm 100 mW product.

This past week, I followed this schedule:

Day 1 (Tuesday) — one session, two minutes in each ear.
Day 2 — one session in the morning, two minutes in each ear, and one session in the evening, two minutes in each ear.
Day 3 — one session midday, two minutes in each ear.

The tinnitus tone is now slightly higher in both ears and much louder. If I was at a 4 in loudness in my left ear before, it is now a 6. If I was at a 7 in my right ear, it is now a 9.

I have read repeatedly that it often gets worse before it gets better with this treatment, but I honestly cannot bear it getting any worse in my right ear, especially. Because of this, I am now back to my sleep pattern from six months ago, which is sleeping in one to two-hour increments.

 

[SoundB0und]

did the intensity of your tinnitus ever come back down after the initial laser treatments?

Yes. At the start of this summer, it will be seven years of very consistent lasering.

Perhaps there should be a disclaimer or a warning with the lasers, saying that if you think you are not willing or capable of enduring the initial spike, then maybe it is not even worth the purchase. It seems like most people who start lasering experience it.

I sort of had my back against the wall. Tinnitus that I could only barely hear over the shower would have been a dream come true when I started. I did not really have other options.