Do you, or the person you care for, have the sensation of hearing a sound where there is no outside noise? This may be Tinnitus, a condition which affects an estimated 15 to 20 per cent of the population.
Tinnitus is the sensation of hearing a sound when there is no external source for that sound. This condition affects people in different ways, with varying effects on their everyday life. It can even vary in intensity or sound type from one episode to the next for the same person. The sound may appear as ringing, buzzing, whistling or some other sound which can be unique to that person. Some people are aware of it but find that it has no impact on their wellbeing, whilst others can find it extremely stressful and it may even disrupt their sleep.
The British Tinnitus Association has recently relaunched as Tinnitus UK and is the only UK charity to support the 1 in 7 adults who live with Tinnitus. Its aim is to increase visibility and raise awareness of this condition which can have a severe impact on someone’s quality of life. The Tinnitus UK website offers wide-ranging information and includes a chatline where people with tinnitus and their carers can get support and advice. In addition to this, it looks at available treatments and rates them for safety and effectiveness, although there is currently no single treatment that will work for everyone.
Additional Sources of Information:
- The NHS also provides more information about Tinnitus, its diagnosis and the conditions it may be linked to at NHS – Tinnitus.
- Boots Hearingcare offer remedies to try at home which include relaxation and stress reducing techniques.
- Specsavers look at natural remedies which may provide relief.
Tinnitus Awareness Week takes place during the first week of February and aims to educate and inform the public about the symptoms of Tinnitus and how it affects people. This year it will focus on prevention and supporting those who live or work in a noisy environment that puts their hearing at risk #TinnitusWeek.
Blog by Nicola Coughlin
