What You Need to Know About Tinnitus: Tinnitus Awareness Week 6-12 Feb 2023

Tinnitus is a condition in which a person experiences ringing, buzzing, whistling or other sounds in their ears, even when there is no external sound present. Tinnitus can be experienced due to a variety of reasons, such as exposure to loud noises, ear infections, head and neck injuries, and a temporary or permanent hearing loss etc.

The exact cause of tinnitus is still unknown, but it is believed to be related to changes in the neural activity in the auditory system. In some cases, it can be a side effect of certain medications, such as aspirin, antibiotics, and diuretics, and it can also be a symptom of an underlying health condition, such as Meniere's disease, high blood pressure, and depression.

It is estimated that 10-15% of world’s population has tinnitus. 85% people with tinnitus will also have hearing loss. Some people start to experience tinnitus after a temporary hearing loss due to noise exposure or earwax/ear infection etc. About 1 in 7 people in UK have tinnitus. About a fourth of people who experience tinnitus, are bothered by it. Fortunately, a vast majority of people who have tinnitus, do not feel stressed about it. There are a range of management techniques that a healthcare professional can discuss with you, depending on your individual circumstances. There is help available for everyone. In our experience, over 85% of those who seek help for tinnitus, feel better after two appointments.

The severity of tinnitus can range from mild to severe, and it can last for a short time or persist indefinitely. In some sense, it is a hidden issue as other people cannot see or feel what a tinnitus sufferer is feeling. Many people with tinnitus feel that the wider world does not have enough empathy for what they go through with this condition.

The impact of tinnitus on a person's life can be substantial. It can cause anxiety, stress, and depression, as well as interfere with sleep and concentration. In severe cases, it can even lead to disability and social isolation. It can affect both the social and professional aspects of life. People who suffer from tinnitus often describe it as a constant distraction that affects their daily activities, making it difficult to concentrate and enjoy life.

There is no ‘cure’ for tinnitus (see the full article to understand why), but there are several treatment options available that can help manage the symptoms and reduce the impact on a person's life. Some of these treatments include sound enrichment, information & advice, and lifestyle changes. In some cases, medication, such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, may also help reduce some of the symptoms.

If you have a bothersome tinnitus, the first thing to do is to seek help- even if you have been told that ‘there’s nothing you can do about it’. Knowledge on assessment and management of tinnitus has improved. Help is available through NHS or private audiology or ENT clinics. Please contact your GP for a referral to NHS, if you would like to take that route.

There are published guidance available now that are widely respected and followed by NHS and private practitioners (including GP’s), which demands that a person with bothersome tinnitus receives specialist help. Please quote this article or NICE guideline on Tinnitus assessment and management -NG155 (available at https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng155/evidence accessed on 04.02.23 ) to your healthcare provider if you have to.

In conclusion, tinnitus is a common condition that affects millions of people all over the world. Although it has no cure, there are several treatment options available that can help manage the symptoms and reduce the impact on a person's life. If you suspect you may have tinnitus, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the cause and find the best treatment plan for you. https://tinnitus.org.uk/ is a great source for all things related to tinnitus.

AUDIOLOGY APPOINTMENT BOOKING

You are welcome to book an appointment with our expert audiologist have a look and offer you some information and advice.

Audiology Planet is a well-established, local, independent audiology clinic. We provide a full range of hearing and balance services to all age groups in our community. Our audiology clinics are in Kent, Surrey and London. Our main clinics are in Sevenoaks (Springbank House) and Tunbridge Wells (Nuffield Clinic). We have abundant parking for our patients.

We provide a holistic care, tailor-made for individual circumstances. We use the art and science of audiology to offer a need-based assessment and management of ear related issues. Our service is very well regarded by our patients and is run by one of country’s leading audiology experts, Dr Jay Jindal. Jay has a doctorate degree in audiology and over 17 years of experience of working in NHS and private sectors. Jay has written research papers in several peer-reviewed medical journals. He is also often invited to teach at various national and international educational events on all things related to audiology.

Contact us today via the details below or book your appointment online here: AUDIOLOGY APPOINTMENT BOOKING

For more information on tinnitus and to arrange an appointment please visit https://www.audiologyplanet.com/tinnitus-all-you-need-to-know/ We also have a free open day coming up on 03.03.23, in which we will talk all things about ears- tinnitus, earwax, hearing loss and how to use earphones or listen to music in a safer way etc.

Register here for Audiology Open Day at Springbank House: AUDIOLOGY OPEN DAY BOOKING 03.03.2023 at 2pm onwards