Hearing Health

About Tinnitus

Tinnitus is the term used for any noise heard in the ears or head, in the absence of any external sound.

Approximately 1 in 8 people suffer with tinnitus. It is quite common with a hearing loss, but people with normal hearing can also experience tinnitus. Many people live with it and it does not disrupt their daily life. Following medical consultation, Hearing Therapy can provide, information about tinnitus and support with tinnitus management, which may include a combination of: -

• Information and practical coping strategies.
• Advice on Sound Enrichment, including hearing aids, natural sounds,
• Environmental sounds, white noise generators.
• Sleep management.
• Counselling
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy methods.
• Relaxation training
• Anxiety and stress management

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a term used to describe any type of noise that someone may hear but which has no external source, so it is coming from the body’s own hearing system. It is commonly reported in many different ways, for example ringing, buzzing, whistling, humming, pulsing and even music.

It is very common and generally nothing to worry about. It affects all different age groups and can be caused by colds, build-up of wax, exposure to loud noises, hearing loss and stress and for some the cause may be unknown.

It is rare for tinnitus to be a sign of a problem but it is a good idea to speak to your GP to check whether there is something treatable causing tinnitus and if necessary they can refer you to a specialist.

For some people, tinnitus can affect daily life and can seem worse if stressed. There are several management options that can be used to help people learn to live with their tinnitus. Helpful strategies include ways to reduce the focus on tinnitus and lower any stress or negative emotions associated with it.

Talking to somebody about your tinnitus can help. Sound therapy, stress management, relaxation and sleep management are some of the strategies that have been shown to improve people’s experience of tinnitus.

If you are bothered by tinnitus please speak to your GP and ask for a referral to Chime Audiology for some help, guidance and a hearing health assessment.

Useful Links

Tinnitus UK https://www.tinnitus.org.uk

Take on tinnitus https://www.takeontinnitus.co.uk/#home